These symptoms may indicate a bleeding ulcer or another serious gastrointestinal condition.

**How Is H. pylori Diagnosed?**

Healthcare providers have several reliable ways to detect the infection, including:

One of the most accurate non-invasive tests.

Detects proteins from the bacteria in a stool sample.

Can detect antibodies but is less useful for determining whether an infection is current.

In some cases, a doctor may recommend an endoscopy to examine the stomach lining and obtain a biopsy.

How Is It Treated?

Unlike a simple stomach virus, H. pylori usually requires prescription medication.