Understanding Helicobacter Pylori Infection: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common bacterial infection that affects the stomach lining. This Gram-negative bacteria can cause digestive distress and inflammation, often leading to peptic ulcers. It primarily inhabits the mucus layer of the stomach and duodenum, sometimes causing significant damage to the tissues. In fact, H. pylori is responsible for over 90% of duodenal ulcers and 70% of gastric ulcers worldwide.
The Role of Stomach Acid and H. pylori
In a healthy individual, stomach acid has a very low pH (around 2-3), which helps break down food and protect the body from harmful bacteria, parasites, and other pathogens. However, when H. pylori infects the stomach, it releases an enzyme called urease, which neutralises stomach acid and creates an alkaline environment. Over time, this disrupts digestion, leading to nutrient malabsorption and other digestive problems.
Interestingly, some research suggests that H. pylori may offer some protection against gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and there is ongoing debate as to whether eradication is always necessary in asymptomatic individuals.
Who is Affected by H. pylori?
H. pylori is incredibly prevalent, with more than half of the global population estimated to be colonised by the bacteria. Despite this high prevalence, many people remain asymptomatic and may never experience issues related to the infection. Researchers believe that certain individuals are more resistant to the harmful effects of H. pylori, possibly due to genetic factors or a stronger immune response.
Signs and Symptoms of Helicobacter Pylori Infection
When symptoms of H. pylori infection do arise, they are often associated with gastritis or peptic ulcers. Common signs include:
A burning or aching pain in the stomach, often worse on an empty stomach
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Frequent burping and bloating
Unintentional weight loss
Complications of Untreated H. pylori Infection
If left untreated, H. pylori infection can lead to serious complications, including:
Gastric ulcers: The bacteria can weaken the protective lining of the stomach and duodenum, leading to ulcer formation.
Gastritis: Inflammation and irritation of the stomach lining caused by H. pylori infection.
Stomach cancer: H. pylori is a significant risk factor for certain types of stomach cancer.
How is Helicobacter Pylori Infection Contracted?
H. pylori is primarily transmitted through direct contact with saliva, vomit, or stool. It can also spread through contaminated food or water. Risk factors for H. pylori infection include:
Crowded living conditions: Infection spreads more easily in homes with many people.
Contaminated water supply: Lack of access to clean water increases risk.
Developing countries: People living in regions with poor sanitation are more likely to contract H. pylori.
Living with an infected person: Close contact with someone who has H. pylori increases the risk of transmission.
Diagnosing Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Diagnosing H. pylori typically involves a combination of non-invasive tests, including:
Blood Tests: To assess for nutrient deficiencies like low iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.
H. pylori Stool Antigen Test: Detects the presence of the bacteria in stool.
Urea Breath Test: Measures exhaled carbon dioxide after consuming a urea solution to detect H. pylori.
Endoscopy: In more complex cases, an endoscopy may be performed to examine the stomach and take biopsies.
Treatment Options for H. pylori Infection
Conventional Medical Treatments
Standard medical treatment for H. pylori involves antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid and promote healing. Current protocols include:
Triple Therapy: A combination of a PPI (such as Nexium) with two antibiotics—clarithromycin and amoxicillin—which has a 77% eradication success rate.
Quadruple Therapy: In more resistant cases, a combination of PPI, bismuth, tetracycline, and metronidazole may be used, with a 78.3% success rate.
However, the growing issue of antibiotic resistance in H. pylori has led to a need for alternative and complementary treatment approaches.
Natural and Complementary Treatments
Several natural remedies have shown promise in supporting the eradication of H. pylori and promoting stomach health:
Herbal Medicine: Research supports the use of Green tea, Rhubarb, and Nigella extract in treating H. pylori. Licorice root, Calendula flower, Yarrow herb, and Marshmallow root can also assist in healing peptic ulcers caused by the bacteria.
Nutrient Supplementation: Key nutrients that support healing and may help eradicate H. pylori include:
Broccoli sprout powder
Vitamin C and E
Lactoferrin
Melatonin and tryptophan
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)
Probiotics: Specific probiotic strains, when used alongside antibiotic treatments, can improve eradication rates. Beneficial strains include:
Lactobacillus casei DN-114
Lactobacillus johnsonii La1
Lactobacillus reuteri MM53
Saccharomyces cerevisiae var boulardii
Therapeutic Diet Applications
Certain foods have been found to support the treatment of H. pylori:
Cranberries: Cranberry juice can help convert H. pylori into a dormant, non-pathogenic form.
Dark Berries: Elderberries, bilberries, and blueberries may assist with bacterial eradication.
Cabbage Juice: Known to help heal gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori.
Foods to Avoid During H. pylori Treatment
Certain foods and lifestyle habits can aggravate H. pylori infection and should be avoided, including:
Alcohol and caffeine
Chocolate
Cigarette smoking
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Excessive sugar
Managing and Healing from H. pylori
Successfully treating H. pylori requires a multi-faceted approach, combining conventional medicine with dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and natural remedies. Working closely with a healthcare provider ensures a personalised and effective treatment plan.
If you suspect an H. pylori infection or want to explore treatment options book a free clarity call with me to learn more.
