Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that affects the stomach. It can be present in the body and never cause symptoms or require treatment. For others there can be serious complications. Symptoms can include mild stomach cramps, bloating or gas. This bacteria can also cause severe stomach pain, trouble swallowing and black and bloody stools. While rare, an infection can lead to ulcers and stomach cancer. To help prevent getting sick from this bacteria it is important to become familiar with the common causes of H. pylori infection.
Contact with an Infected Person
The bacteria H. pylori can be easily spread from person to person by coming into direct contact with fecal matter, saliva or any fluid of an infected person, reports the Mayo Clinic. Normally the stomach contains acids to destroy bacteria. However, H. pylori can survive in the intestines. Why it causes disease in some and not others is still not well understood. This condition is most common in Asian countries.
Consuming Contaminated Food or Water
The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that H. pylori infections are more prevalent in developing countries. This bacteria can damage the lining of the stomach and/or intestines and cause peptic ulcers. While more research is needed to understand exactly how this bacteria is spread, ingesting contaminated food or water may play a role.
Unsanitary Conditions
Living in crowded areas or in unsanitary conditions raises the risk of developing the H. pylori infection, states the National Institutes of Medicine. While this bacteria usually does not cause any health problems, ingesting coffee, alcohol and smoking can increase the chances of developing symptoms or complications if this bacteria is in the stomach. A physician can run blood and urine tests to confirm a diagnosis.
