Treatment commonly includes:
- Two different antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria
- A proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to reduce stomach acid and promote healing
- Occasionally, bismuth-containing medications as part of a quadruple therapy regimen
It is essential to complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to maximize the chance of eradicating the infection and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.
After treatment, your healthcare provider may recommend a follow-up breath or stool test to confirm that the infection has been cleared.
Can H. pylori Be Prevented?
There is no vaccine currently available, but you can lower your risk by:
- Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Drinking clean, safe water
- Eating properly prepared food
- Practicing good kitchen hygiene
- Avoiding sharing eating utensils in settings where sanitation may be poor
These habits also help reduce the risk of many other gastrointestinal infections.
Who Is More Likely to Be Infected?
Risk factors include:
- Living in crowded conditions
- Limited access to clean water
- Poor sanitation
- Having a family member with H. pylori
- Living in regions where the infection is common
Many people become infected during childhood and may carry the bacteria for years without knowing it.
The Bottom Line
Helicobacter pylori infection is common and often treatable, but it should not be ignored. Persistent symptoms such as burning stomach pain, bloating, nausea, early fullness, loss of appetite, frequent burping, or unexplained weight loss may indicate the need for testing.
Keep in mind that these symptoms are not specific to H. pylori and can also occur with acid reflux, functional dyspepsia, gallbladder disease, food intolerances, and other digestive disorders. The only way to confirm the diagnosis is through appropriate medical testing.
If your symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, worsen over time, or are accompanied by alarming signs such as vomiting blood, black stools, or severe abdominal pain, seek prompt medical care. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can relieve symptoms, promote healing, and reduce the risk of complications.