Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria It infects the stomach lining and is a common cause of various gastrointestinal conditions. While some individuals may not experience any symptoms, H. pylori can lead to various symptoms and complications.
Some of the known symptoms of H. pylori infection include:
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort.
- Peptic Ulcers: H. pylori can cause sores or ulcers to develop in the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. Symptoms may include burning stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
- Gastric Cancer: In some cases, long-term H. pylori infection may increase the risk of developing stomach cancer.
- Duodenal Ulcers: These are ulcers that develop in the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum) and can cause similar symptoms to gastric ulcers.
- Nausea and Vomiting: H. pylori infection can lead to persistent nausea and vomiting, especially when accompanied by gastritis or ulcers.
- Loss of Appetite: Some people with H. pylori infection may experience a reduced appetite, leading to unintended weight loss.
- Anemia: Chronic H. pylori infection can lead to bleeding ulcers, which can cause iron deficiency anemia due to blood loss.
- Bad Breath (Halitosis): H. pylori infection has been associated with chronic bad breath in some individuals.
- Heartburn: The bacterial infection can trigger acid reflux, leading to heartburn and chest discomfort.
- Belching and Flatulence: Increased gas production in the stomach due to H. pylori infection can cause excessive belching and flatulence.
- Fatigue: Chronic H. pylori infection, especially when associated with anemia, can lead to fatigue and weakness.
Here are some lesser-known symptoms of H. pylori infection:
- Unexplained weight loss: Some individuals infected with H. pylori may experience unintended weight loss due to decreased appetite or inflammation in the stomach lining affecting nutrient absorption.
- Iron deficiency anemia: H. pylori infection can cause chronic inflammation in the stomach lining, leading to a decreased ability to absorb iron. This, in turn, can result in iron deficiency anemia.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency: Similarly, the chronic inflammation caused by H. pylori can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12, leading to a deficiency that may manifest as fatigue, weakness, and neurological symptoms.
- Restless leg syndrome: There is some evidence suggesting a link between H. pylori infection and restless leg syndrome (RLS), a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs.
- Skin conditions: In some cases, H. pylori infection has been associated with various skin conditions, such as chronic urticaria (hives) and rosacea. However, the relationship between these skin conditions and H. pylori is still being studied.
- Mood disorders: Some studies have suggested a potential association between H. pylori infection and mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. The exact nature of this relationship is still not fully understood.
It’s important to note that not everyone infected with H. pylori will experience symptoms, and some individuals may carry the bacterium without ever showing any signs of infection. If you suspect you have an H. pylori infection or are experiencing any of the above symptoms, I’d love to hear from you. A GI MAP test can help determine if you have H.Pylori and I’d love to support you to feel your best. Book a Complimentary Consult below.