H. pylori bacteria can reside in the stomach. It can cause pain and a variety of gastrointestinal illnesses such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, and even cancer. It’s possible to have H. pylori and not know it, as in many cases, it is asymptomatic. However, H. pylori symptoms may include pain in the stomach as well as nausea, vomiting, and a loss of appetite.
While H. pylori is contagious, doctors are not sure how the bacteria is transmitted. Most doctors believe it is likely acquired by ingesting contaminated food or water or through person-to-person contact (oral-fecal or oral-oral transmission). In many cases, infection occurs in young children, and poor hygiene and overcrowded living conditions are also believed to contribute to transmission.
Because the exact transmission of the bacteria is not known, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not make specific recommendations regarding preventing infection. Nevertheless, the CDC claims that it is always a good idea to wash your hands using soap and hot water, especially in crowded living conditions. In addition, it is advisable to eat only food that has been properly prepared and drink only water that is known to be clean and from a safe source.
If you suspect that you might have an H. pylori infection, speak to your health care professional.
For more information about how the BreathID breath test system is used to detect H. pylori at the point-of-care, please watch a short film on Urea Breath Tests or contact a company representative by completing the contact form.