What is H. pylori infection?

A bacterial infection that occurs
in the stomach

Most people with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection don’t experience
symptoms. However, if they do occur, symptoms may include:

  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Burning sensation
    in the stomach
  • Burning sensation in the stomach
  • Bloating
  • Bloating
  • Loss of appetite
  • Frequent burping

H. pylori should be treated when detected, as it is contagious. Leaving H. pylori untreated increases the risk of health issues related to the infection.

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H. pylori infection is common

About 50% of the world’s population and 36% of the US
population has H. pylori infection.

What causes H. pylori infection?

You can get H. pylori from contaminated food or water. It can also be passed
from an infected person’s saliva or other bodily fluids.

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Leaving H. pylori infection untreated
can lead to health problems

These health concerns include:

  • Stomach inflammation: H. pylori infection can lead to irritation and
    swelling in the stomach
  • Ulcers: H. pylori infection may damage the protective lining of the
    stomach causing an ulcer. About 10% of people with H. pylori
    will develop an ulcer
  • Stomach cancer: H. pylori is a risk factor for certain types of
    stomach cancer

It’s important to complete your
14‑day H. pylori treatment

Taking all of the medication prescribed by your doctor helps
increase the chance of getting rid of your H. pylori infection. If
you experience side effects that concern you, ask your doctor if
you should stop treatment.

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