Helicobacter pylori, also called H. pylori, are bacteria that cause irritation and ulcers in the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. The bacterium is widespread and up to 80 percent of adults have had an infection with or without symptoms present at some point, according to Kids Health from Nemours. The bacteria may cause no symptoms for individuals with the infection. Other people experience a stomach ulcer or an inflammation of the stomach, called gastritis. Recognizing the symptoms associated with a H. pylori infection that causes an ulcer or gastritis helps know when to seek medical treatment.
Nausea and Vomiting
The H. pylori bacteria can cause nausea. The nausea worsens when the stomach is empty. Vomiting may occur in addition to the nausea and can help relieve the nausea. Nausea and vomiting are not always present for individuals with an H. pylori infection.
Pain
Pain associated with an H. pylori infection includes a dull, gnawing, aching feeling in the stomach, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The area in the abdomen that experiences the pain is in the area above the naval and below the ribcage. The affected individual may also feel a burning sensation. The intermittent pain may vary in intensity and is commonly felt several hours following a meal. The pain can last for a little as a few minutes or may last for several hours. An empty stomach increases and intensifies the pain, so the middle of the night may become painful. The pain dissipates once the individual eats.
Gastrointestinal Distress
In addition to the nausea, vomiting and stomach pain, other symptoms of gastrointestinal distress are common with H. pylori. The bacteria can cause abdominal bloating or fullness, indigestion and belching, according to Medline Plus. Individuals may experience a decreased appetite and weight loss associated with these symptoms.
Bleeding
An ulcer or inflammation of the stomach lining, caused by the H. pylori, may begin bleeding. Signs of bleeding in the stomach appear as blood in vomit or stool. Fresh blood may appear bright red in either substance. Old blood resembles coffee grounds in vomit and stool becomes black and tarry.
Fatigue and Weakness
Bleeding for long periods or heavy bleeding caused by the H. pylori bacteria may lead to anemia. Anemia causes fatigue and generalized weakness for the affected individual, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
