Stomach Pains Cause & Symptoms

Believe it or not, stomach pain and stomach ulcers can be caused by a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori or H. Pylori. H. pylori is a bacteria that

can cause peptic ulcer disease and gastritis. (pain and inflammation of the stomach).

Stomach Pain Symptoms

Only 20% of those infected with the bacteria have symptoms. But for those who have symptoms, they include: Dull or burning stomach pain, weight loss, bloating, nausea, persistent burping or vomiting after meals. If left untreated, the H. Pylori bacteria may cause stomach ulcers and long term  – cancer.

What is an H. Pylori infection?

pylori (Helicobacter pylori) are bacteria that can cause an infection in the stomach or duodenum (first part of the small intestine). It’s the most common cause of peptic ulcer disease. Untreated, long-term H. pylori infection can lead to stomach cancer (though rarely). Chronic gastritis may not heal if H. Pylori is not treated adequately, and should be treated (if symptomatic), and testing shows you are infected with the bacteria. 

Who gets H. pylori infections?

H. pylori bacteria are present in some 50% to 75% of the world’s population. It’s more common in developing countries. In the U.S,  H. Pylori bacteria are found in about 5% of children under the age of 10 but up to 40% of adults.  

Is H. pylori contagious?

H. pylori can spread from person to person. H. pylori are found in saliva, plaque on teeth and stool,  (poop).  Infection can be spread through kissing and by transferring the bacteria from the hands of those who have not thoroughly washed them after a bowel movement. May also be spread by contaminated food or water. 

Pylori infection and stomach cancer:

Having H. Pylori increases risk for stomach cancer later in life. If you have a family history of stomach cancer and other cancer risk factors, (such as smoking or moderate alcohol use), it is recommended you get tested and treated. Despite not having symptoms of an ulcer, testing is recommended if risk factors are present. 

SYMPTOMS 

• • Dull or burning pain in your stomach (more often a few hours after eating and at night). Your pain may last minutes to hours. 
  • Unexplained weight loss.
  • Bloating or burping after meals. 
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Indigestion (dyspepsia), chronic acid reflux
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Dark stools (called melena,  from a bleeding ulcer). 

How is H. pylori treated?

H. Pylori infection is treated with a combination of antibiotics and an acid-reducing proton pump inhibitor or similar medications for at least 10 days and often for 14 days, as the bacteria which is able to live in an acidic environment, is difficult to completely kill.. 

Can H. pylori infection be prevented?

You can lower your risk of H. pylori infection if you:

Drink filtered, clean water and use clean water during food preparation. (This is especially important if you live in areas of the world known to have a contaminated water supply.)

Wash your hands thoroughly (20 seconds) with soap and water before eating and after using the bathroom.

How will I know if the H. pylori infection is healed / cured?

You may repeat testing 3-4 weeks after completing treatment. The breath test is generally  recommended for re-testing.

Summary of cause of Stomach pains

Pylori infection affects up to 40% of adults. While no symptomatic infection does not always need treatment, many are not aware of the symptoms which include: nausea, frequent burping, bloating, unintentional weight loss, decreased appetite, chronic acid reflux, dark stools, and mid abdomen pain or burning sensation.  H. Pylori infection is often found after stomach cancer is discovered. H. Pylori may need repeated treatment, as it is becoming difficult to completely kill,  as the bacteria are developing resistance to the multiple antibiotics used to treat.