Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori, are bacteria that live in the stomach and small intestine. The MayoClinic.com explains that H. pylori is usually harmless, but can cause ulcers and stomach cancer for some. Many people infected with H. pylori have no symptoms. The bacteria may be spread through infected food and water, and may be spread through contact with the saliva, feces and stomach contents of an infected person. Symptoms of H. pylori range from mild to severe.
Stomach Pain
Abdominal discomfort is the most common symptom of H. pylori infection, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, especially in those who have developed an ulcer from the bacteria. An infected person may feel a deep burning sensation beneath the breastbone cage that can extend to the belly button, called dyspepsia. Discomfort is usually worse when the stomach is empty and may be relieved for a short time by eating. Nausea and vomiting can accompany the burning discomfort, and may appear off and on for days or weeks.
H. pylori infection can cause a medical emergency if severe damage to the stomach or small intestine occurs. Bloody stools or stools that resemble black, sticky tar are symptoms of intestinal bleeding or a severe ulcer. Additionally, vomit that looks like wet coffee grounds indicates internal bleeding; both warrant immediate medical attention.
Weight Loss
A person experiencing symptoms from H. pylori may find it difficult to eat and retain food. While eating small meals and snacks may relieve dyspepsia temporarily, following an appropriate diet and meal plan is sometimes difficult as nausea and abdominal discomfort return. Frequent vomiting, if present, compromises a person's ability to draw nutrition from foods and maintain adequate body weight. Weight loss may be more severe in people who have had long-term untreated symptoms of H. pylori infection.
Gas
Bloating and frequent burping can accompany an H. pylori infection. Increased stomach acid, the inability to consume adequate foods and frequent nausea can cause abdominal bloating and burping. Gas may be worse at times that dyspepsia is in full force, and may be relieved as anti-gas medications may not relieve abdominal fullness from intestinal gas and bloating. The need to burp or pass gas may feel uncontrollable and not bring adequate relief from feeling bloated.
