Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of spiral-shaped bacteria that lives in the mucous lining of the stomach. It is very common worldwide, infecting about two-thirds of the global population. H. pylori bacteria can cause several stomach-related health problems, including:
- Inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis)
- Peptic ulcers (sores in the stomach or upper part of the small intestine)
- Chronic gastritis which can lead to stomach lining damage
- In rare cases, it can increase the risk of stomach cancer and a rare type of stomach lymphoma
The bacteria survive in the harsh acidic environment of the stomach by burrowing into the mucus lining, and they reproduce there. Most people with H. pylori infection do not have symptoms, but for some, it can cause stomach pain, bloating, loss of appetite, frequent burping, and weight loss. H. pylori infection is usually acquired in childhood and is typically spread through person-to-person contact, possibly via saliva, fecal contamination, or contaminated food and water. Treatment generally involves antibiotics to clear the bacteria and medications to reduce stomach acid to promote healing. In summary, H. pylori is a common bacterial infection of the stomach that can lead to ulcers and other stomach diseases if untreated. However, many people with this infection remain symptom-free. If you want more details on symptoms, causes, or treatment, please let me know.
