Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Helicobacter pylori, a tiny but mighty bacterium that plays a significant role in our digestive system. Despite its small size, H. pylori can have a big impact on our health, and understanding its role is crucial for maintaining a healthy gut. Not many of us know, but we now understand that a large proportion of our happy hormones come from the GUT and our immune system is undermined if our GUT is compromised through taking antibiotics or a poor eating regime. Stress also contributes to an Irritable bowel which in turn affects normal GUT regulation.
What is Helicobacter Pylori:
First things first, Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori for short, is a type of bacteria that finds its cosy home in the lining of our stomachs. Before you start panicking, it’s essential to know that not all H. pylori are troublemakers. In fact, many people host these bacteria without even realising it, and not everyone experiences health issues as a result. We are proud to note that the significance of this bacteria was uncovered at our very own University of KZN!
This bacterium penetrates the lining of the stomach and due to its ability to reduce the acidity around it, it can make itself at home in the acidic environment. While H. pylori might not cause issues for everyone, for some, it can lead to a variety of problems.
The potential negative side effects of being host to H. Pylori:
You might wonder what the big deal is with H. pylori if many people have it without ever experiencing symptoms. Well, for starters, this bacterium is often associated with the development of peptic ulcers. These are sores that form on the lining of the stomach or small intestine, causing pain, discomfort, and sometimes even bleeding.
But that’s not all – H. pylori has been linked to generalised gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach lining, and it’s also a known risk factor for stomach cancer. It’s essential to note that not everyone with H. pylori will experience these severe complications, but the potential is there.
Transmission and Risk Factors:
Are you curious about how you might have acquired this uninvited guest? H. pylori is typically spread through contaminated food, water, direct person-to-person contact (such as kissing), and through direct contact with vomit or stool. It’s more common in areas with poor sanitation, but anyone, regardless of location, can be at risk.
Certain lifestyle factors can also increase your likelihood of hosting H. pylori. Having good health habits (hygiene) can help keep you safe. These habits include:
· Wash your hands with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before you eat.
· Best always drink filtered water and wash your vegetables and fruit in this filtered water. Adding a little apple cider vinegar in with the soak and wash will help prevent contamination.
· Make sure all food you eat is clean, fresh and cooked properly.
Symptoms:
Identifying an H. pylori infection isn’t always straightforward, as many people may not experience any symptoms. However, for those who do, common signs include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and a gnawing or burning sensation in the stomach. Other symptoms may include weight loss, frequent burping, and a loss of appetite. It is also possible to have darker stools due to bleeding. These symptoms need to be investigated by your healthcare provider! Do not self-medicate long-term.
Diagnosis:
I would strongly recommend that everyone who is experiencing gastric issues have an H. Pylori test. Even if you have no issues except a change in bowel habits or are over 40, speak to your doctor or call in to see our clinic sister or pharmacist who will discuss your concerns and perhaps recommend we do a test.
How do you test for this H. Pylori bacterium?
We test for H Pylori antibodies through a blood test where we take a vial of blood and send it to the lab. Most people may have a positive result as many of us have had this bug at some stage in our lives. However, a stool sample is the best way to see if you have these bugs active in your GUT. All this involves is bringing in a small stool sample which we send off for analysis (ok – don’t gasp! – we will give you a little container and screw on sample cap and explain exactly how to do this in a clean and fast manner).
Treatment:
If the results come back positive for H. Pylori, we can get you successfully treated. Doctors often prescribe a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medications to kick these unwelcome guests out of your digestive system. It’s crucial to follow your prescribed treatment plan diligently to ensure a complete eradication of the bacteria.
Taking PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) long-term is not wise. Side effects may become evident including headaches, low vitamin B12 and magnesium stores as well as increased risk of stomach cancer and reduced bone density. Also, kidney issues are a concern:
“Our results indicate kidney problems can develop silently and gradually over time, with over use of PPI’s resulting in eroding kidney function and leading to long-term kidney damage or even renal failure.”
Source: Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, Washington University School of Medicine, quoted in Science Daily, Feb. 22, 2017
Note: We need acid to process and break down our food so these ulcer meds do interfere with our natural digestion. Short-term use is fine – however, if you need meds for indigestion, reflux or gastric pain PLEASE come in to discuss this with one of our Pharmacists or clinic sisters. The pain may be due to food intolerance, overuse of pain meds like NSAIDS or this H Pylori noo noo.
Conclusion:
In the grand scheme of gut health, Helicobacter pylori is a tiny but significant player. While not everyone will experience issues with this bacterium, understanding its potential impact is essential for maintaining overall well-being. If you suspect you might have an H. pylori infection, don’t hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider. Dysbiosis in your GUT may make you lethargic, gain weight, have depression, and affect your sleep cycle. Let us help you live a more productive and healthier life. After all, a happy gut is a happy you!
