Some stomach ulcers are caused by a bacteria called Helicobacter Pylori. Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori) is a "cork-screw" shaped bacteria that lives in the mucus coating the lining of the stomach and duodenum.

It can irritate the lining of the stomach causing inflammation and is a major causative factor in stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastric cancer and other forms of gastritis. Helicobacter Pylori infections are believed to be caused by swallowing bacteria in food or liquids, or from unclean utensils. It can also pass from one person to the next, therefore the partner of the person infected by Helicobacter Pylori should consider being tested.

What are the symptoms?

Some Helicobacter Pylori infections are 'silent' and produce no symptoms, but when they do cause symptoms they are usually symptoms of gastritis or stomach ulcers. Typical symptoms of gastritis include vomiting, nausea and abdominal pain. Stomach ulcers are very similar to mouth ulcers where raw, sensitive patches develop on the lining of the stomach and cause a gnawing or burning pain. The pain can last for minutes or hours and will often feel worse on an empty stomach. Many people assume they have heartburn, as antacid medicine will often relieve the symptoms. r>

Can I screen myself for Helicobacter Pylori?

While an endoscopy is the traditional method of detecting the presence of Helicobacter Pylori, it is now possible to detect Helicobacter Pylori using a blood test. We can arrange for a Helicobacter Pylori test for you. Choose from a kit to use at home, or come in to Inverness CCT and we will prepare a sample to send to the lab.

How do you treat a Helicobacter Pylori infection?

You should discuss your results with your GP. If your results indicate an infection then your GP will probably prescribe eradication therapy that usually includes taking a course of several tablets, including antibiotics, for 7 – 28 days.

Eradication of a Helicobacter Pylori infection usually results in a permanent cure for most stomach or duodenal ulcers.