Categories: Gastroenterology

How H. Pylori Can Affect Your Digestive Health

How H. Pylori Can Affect Your Digestive Health

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Pylori, also known as Helicobacter pylori, is a bacterium that infects both the small intestines and the stomach. It is also quite common. In fact, over 50% of the world’s population is believed to have it.

However, most people are unaware that they have it. You can have an H. Pylori infection and not even realize that you’re dealing with it. It shares some of the same symptoms as other gastroenterological issues which is why it often goes undetected. 

pylori is far more common in children. It often causes sores in the digestive tract known as peptic ulcers. Let’s talk about all of the symptoms and effects related to H. pylori.

Symptoms of H. Pylori Infection

When experiencing an H. pylori infection, you will deal with pain and inflammation in your stomach. The bacteria can make an enzyme that essentially neutralizes your stomach acids. This then causes the environment to change which causes your stomach lining to significantly weaken and peptic ulcers to develop.

The most common cause of stomach ulcers is H. pylori. This is because it usually prompts the stomach to produce more acid than usual. Since strong stomach acids will compromise your stomach lining, peptic ulcers can be extremely painful. 

What It Means for Your Digestive Health

The pain people experience from peptic ulcers can significantly impact your usual daily activities. It can even prevent you from falling asleep. In fact, abdominal pain is your body’s way of communicating that it needs medical attention. 

Peptic ulcers can cause:

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Bloating
  • Abdominal pain
  • Frequent burping
  • Loss of appetite

Some complications that can come along with H. pylori infection are:

  • Gastroenterological blockage
  • Ulcers in your stomach wall
  • Internal bleeding
  • Stomach cancer

That is what makes it so important to see an experienced gastroenterologist who can provide you with an accurate assessment. From there, they can recommend a treatment that works for you. 

Are you currently experiencing abdominal pain or consistent digestive symptoms? Do you feel as if you need a medical evaluation? If so, get in touch with our team today so that we can diagnose your condition and map out an effective treatment plan. 

If you are currently dealing with an H. pylori infection, you will need to get started with treatment asap to alleviate your symptoms and improve your stomach lining. Within 8 weeks of treatment, you can begin to heal and feel much better. 

If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, contact us at the Beverly Hills Center for Digestive Health.

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Mark M. Davidson, MD