Helicobacter pylori, also known as H. pylori, is a common bacterium that appears in the gastric mucosa of more than half of the population. This bacterium, although asymptomatic in most cases, can lead to serious gastrointestinal complications if not treated in advance.
Dr. Eliana Montiel Portillo, specialist in the Digestive System Service at Hospiten Sur University Hospital, warns that the main symptoms are manifested by abdominal pain and distension, nausea and loss of appetite, among others. "Hospiten recommends that people who experience persistent digestive symptoms or who have a family history of gastric cancer should undergo a test to evaluate the study and eradicate the bacteria before other complications arise," she says.
The diagnosis can be made by means of different tests. "There are some simpler ones, such as the breath test with 13C or 14C-labeled urea and the stool antigen test, and others that are more complex, such as upper endoscopy with gastric biopsy," explains the doctor. In the same way, she warns that it is necessary to suspend gastric protectors at least two weeks before performing a diagnostic test.
As for treatment, the specialist comments that, in standard cases, stomach protectors that reduce the amount of gastric acid are prescribed, in addition to a combination of antibiotics. "We are currently using quadruple therapy with bismuth, especially in regions with high rates of antibiotic resistance," she points out.
The doctor also clarifies that "eradication of this bacterium not only improves dyspeptic symptoms, but also significantly reduces the risk of ulcer recurrence and gastric cancer in at-risk populations." After completing treatment, it is recommended to repeat one of the non-invasive diagnostic tests, the breath test as the first choice, to confirm the correct elimination of the bacteria.
Hospiten reaffirms its duty to the patient through prevention and immediate diagnosis of this type of complications, offering simple and effective treatments that promote wellbeing and prevent the development of other types of pathologies in the future.
This article is an English translation generated with AI from the original Spanish content. While we review content for clarity, the information is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment.