Can gastroscopy detect Helicobacter pylori?

Written by Wang Hui Jie
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 27, 2024
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Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacterium, hence it is invisible to the naked eye. However, during a gastroscopy, the gastroenterologist can infer whether a patient is infected with Helicobacter pylori by observing the mucosal appearance under the endoscope. For example, signs such as the disappearance of damages in the tiny veins, nodular changes resembling chicken skin, scattered congested spots, and others. To confirm the presence of a Helicobacter pylori infection, further tests are required. For instance, during a gastroscopy, a rapid urease test can be conducted where a tissue sample from the stomach is tested - this method is quite convenient. Alternatively, a tissue sample can be sent for pathological examination, which might take longer.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Is Helicobacter pylori three pluses serious?

Three pluses for Helicobacter pylori indicate that there is an infection with Helicobacter pylori, and the level of infection is not low. Helicobacter pylori is the main cause of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and even stomach cancer. If a person tests positive for Helicobacter pylori infection, and has symptoms or diseases related to the digestive system, or has a family history of stomach cancer, eradication treatment for Helicobacter pylori is necessary. The treatment involves a proton pump inhibitor plus two types of antibiotics, along with a bismuth agent, for a total of 14 days. After stopping the medication for one month, a carbon-14 breath test should be re-conducted. If the result turns negative, it means that the eradication treatment for Helicobacter pylori was successful. If it does not turn negative, remedial treatment is required.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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If Helicobacter pylori is not treated properly, will it become more severe?

Helicobacter pylori infection, if not treated properly, does not necessarily become more severe. However, if treatment fails, it is necessary to undergo re-treatment. It is recommended to visit a hospital and consult with a qualified gastroenterologist to adjust the treatment plan. The choice of specific medications, as well as their dosages and usage, should be carried out according to medical advice. During the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection, it is important to avoid overeating, maintain regular meal times and portions, consume easily digestible foods, and eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins. Spicy and irritating foods should be avoided.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
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Do you need to change your toothbrush when treating Helicobacter pylori?

It is recommended to change your toothbrush during the treatment period for Helicobacter pylori. This is because Helicobacter pylori exists not only in the stomach but can also be detected in the saliva, dental plaque, and tongue coating of the mouth. Once infected with Helicobacter pylori, a two-week quad therapy that includes bismuth agents is necessary to eradicate the infection. After eradication, the bacteria might still be present on the toothbrush, which could lead to a recurring infection. Therefore, it is advised that patients change their toothbrush after undergoing treatment for Helicobacter pylori. Patients infected with Helicobacter pylori should undergo the two-week quad therapy including bismuth agents for treatment.

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Written by Yang Chun Guang
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Can a barium meal detect Helicobacter pylori?

The most commonly used test for detecting Helicobacter pylori at present is the breath test, which generally comes in two types: carbon-13 and carbon-14, though the testing method is basically fixed. A barium meal test can only detect whether there are large gastric ulcers or the presence of gastric cancer, but Helicobacter pylori is quite small and cannot be detected through a barium meal. Therefore, the detection of Helicobacter pylori typically relies on traditional methods, such as breath tests or tests performed during gastroscopy.

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Can you kiss during the treatment period for Helicobacter pylori?

During the treatment of Helicobacter pylori, it is advisable to avoid kissing, as Helicobacter pylori may be present in saliva, and kissing could transmit the infection to a partner. Also, avoid consuming strong alcohol, strong tea, coffee, and other spicy and irritant foods. Eat regularly and in moderation, chew slowly, and consume easily digestible foods along with fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins, such as apples, bananas, tomatoes, and kiwis. It is recommended to use separate meals during the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection to prevent transmission.