What is the difference between H. pylori and gastritis, their symptoms, causes, and effective treatments? H. pylori is a bacterium that causes inflammation and ulcers in the stomach. Gastritis, on the other hand, is an irritation of the stomach lining and can be caused by the bacterium or other causes. We will learn the difference between them and their effective treatments.
What is H. pylori
H. pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori that lives and multiplies in the stomach lining and can cause chronic inflammation and stomach ulcers. It can be transmitted from person to person through contaminated food and water.
What is gastritis
Gastritis is an irritation of the stomach lining caused by the same bacteria that causes most cases of stomach ulcers, or by taking certain painkillers.
Symptoms of H. pylori and gastritis
Common symptoms of H. pylori infection include:
- Pain and heartburn, which worsen when the stomach is empty.
- Frequent heartburn and acid reflux.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Gas and bloating.
- Loss of appetite and feeling full quickly.
- Bad breath.
- Digestive problems.
- Unexplained weight loss.
Common symptoms of gastritis include:
- Upper abdominal pain (dyspepsia).
- Feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating.
- Vomiting blood.
- Black, tarry stools.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Bloating and gas in the abdomen.
What are the causes of stomach bacteria
A person becomes infected with the stomach bacteria (Helicobacter pylori) as a result of infection. The infection is transmitted through:
- Water or food contamination with Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
- Direct contact with an infected person.
- Handling the stool or vomit of an infected person.
- Sharing personal items increases the risk of transmission.
- Unsanitary and crowded environments increase the risk of infection.
- Poor personal hygiene.
Causes of Gastritis
Causes of gastritis include bacterial infections, such as:
- H. pylori is a common cause of chronic gastritis and lives in the stomach lining.
- Parasitic infections spread through contaminated food or water.
- Virginal and fungal infections resulting from a weakened immune system.
- Taking certain medications, such as aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Severe psychological stress.
What is the difference between H. pylori and gastritis
H. pylori is a bacterium that causes inflammation and ulcers in the stomach, while gastritis is an irritation of the stomach lining and can be caused by bacteria or other causes.
Treatment of H. pylori
Treatment of H. pylori relies on a combination of antibiotics prescribed by the treating physician, such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin, and proton pump inhibitors that reduce stomach acid.
Doctors prescribe quadruple therapy if triple therapy fails or antibiotic resistance is present. This therapy is based on bismuth subsalicylate.
Useful Drinks to Kill H. pylori
There is no single drink that completely eliminates H. pylori, but there are drinks that help fight the infection and alleviate symptoms, including:
- Green tea, which is rich in antioxidants that help reduce stomach inflammation.
- Honey and warm water, which acts as a natural antibacterial.
- Yogurt, as it contains beneficial bacteria that promote digestive health.
- Ginger, which has antibacterial properties.
- Apple cider vinegar, honey, and warm water.
Methods for Diagnosing H. pylori and Gastritis
The treating physician relies on a series of tests to diagnose H. pylori and gastritis, such as:
- Using ultrasound to assess the thickness of the stomach wall.
- Stool analysis to check for the presence of the bacteria.
- Urea breath test.
- Endoscopy to image the stomach lining.
- Blood test.
What foods are prohibited for patients with H. pylori
People with H. pylori should avoid the following foods because they increase the proliferation of the bacteria:
- Fried and fatty fast foods containing hot peppers and chili peppers.
- Acid foods such as tomatoes, oranges, and lemons.
- Reduce the consumption of soft drinks and stimulants such as coffee and tea.
- Reduce the consumption of full-fat dairy products.
- Avoid processed meats such as luncheon meat, which contain preservatives.
Is H. pylori contagious
Yes, H. pylori can be transmitted from one person to another through contaminated food or water, saliva, contact with feces or vomit, or through unclean hands.
Summary of the difference between H. pylori and gastritis
H. pylori is a bacterium that causes inflammation and ulcers in the stomach. It is a specific infection with the Helicobacter pylori bacterium, which can be easily transmitted from one person to another.
Gastritis, on the other hand, is an irritation of the stomach lining and can be caused by the bacterium, stress, or the use of certain medications.