At Aslan Health, we believe that whole-person care starts with knowledge. Today we’re focusing on Helicobacter pylori—better known as H. pylori—a common yet often silent bacterial infection that can lead to serious health concerns if left untreated.
What Is H. pylori?
Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative, spiral-shaped bacterium that lives in the human stomach, especially in the pyloric region. It is one of the most widespread chronic infections in the world—affecting over half of the global population (NCBI, PMC).
Many people carry H. pylori for years without knowing it.
How Does It Spread?
The exact transmission routes are not fully confirmed, but the infection likely spreads through:
- Fecal–oral route – contaminated water or food
- Oral–oral route – sharing utensils, cups, or contact with infected saliva
Most infections occur in childhood and may remain asymptomatic for decades (Mayo Clinic).
How H. pylori Causes Disease
H. pylori has unique survival tactics:
- Spiral shape and flagella allow it to burrow into stomach lining
- Urease enzyme neutralizes stomach acid
- Toxins (CagA, VacA) damage cells and trigger inflammation (MDPI)
Potential complications include:
- Chronic gastritis
- Peptic ulcer disease (in 5–20% of cases)
- Gastric cancer and MALT lymphoma (Canada Public Health)
Signs & Symptoms
Many people never notice symptoms, but when present they may include:
- Dull or burning stomach pain
- Nausea, bloating, or indigestion
- Dark, tarry stools (possible bleeding)
If you notice persistent digestive discomfort, it’s important to get checked.
Diagnosis
Doctors can detect H. pylori using:
- Urea breath test – quick, non-invasive
- Stool antigen test
- Endoscopy with biopsy – for complicated cases (Johns Hopkins Medicine)
Treatment
Historically, triple therapy (PPI + clarithromycin + amoxicillin/metronidazole) was common.
However, due to rising antibiotic resistance (Wikipedia), many providers now use:
- Quadruple therapy (PPI + bismuth + tetracycline + metronidazole)
- Sequential or concomitant regimens tailored to resistance patterns (PMC)
Prevention & Public Health Impact
- Good hygiene – handwashing, safe food prep
- Access to clean water – reduces transmission
- Early detection – especially in high-risk groups
H. pylori infection is more common in communities with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare (Wiley).
How Aslan Health Can Help
At Aslan Health, we offer affordable testing and treatment for uninsured and underinsured patients.
Our whole-person care model means we address not only the infection but also your nutrition, emotional health, and faith journey—helping you heal completely.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Helicobacter pylori
- Öztekin et al., 2021. Helicobacter pylori and gastric diseases. PMC
- Mayo Clinic. H. pylori infection. Link
- Canada Public Health. H. pylori – Pathogen Safety Data Sheet.
- MDPI. Virulence mechanisms of H. pylori.
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. H. pylori Diagnosis.
- World Journal of Gastroenterology. Extra-gastric manifestations of H. pylori.