Can a gastroscopy detect Helicobacter pylori?

Written by Yang Chun Guang
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 26, 2024
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Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacterium that can easily infect and cause chronic gastritis, and it even has the potential to lead to cancer. Therefore, patients with Helicobacter pylori generally require formal treatment. In terms of diagnostics, Helicobacter pylori can be detected through a gastroscopy, but the bacteria cannot be detected by gastroscopy alone; the test for Helicobacter pylori is performed under the scope. However, the current main method for testing Helicobacter pylori is through a breath test, since undergoing a gastroscopy just to test for the bacteria can be quite uncomfortable. Moreover, the accuracy of the breath test is relatively high, so currently, Helicobacter pylori is generally detected via breath testing rather than gastroscopy.

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Written by Wang Li Wei
Gastroenterology
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Does everyone have Helicobacter pylori?

Helicobacter pylori is not present in everyone; the infection rate among the general population can reach about 60%. However, some people who are infected with Helicobacter pylori do not necessarily experience symptoms such as acid reflux, bloating, stomach pain, or bad breath. Some people develop symptoms after being infected with Helicobacter pylori, and subsequently, when they visit a hospital for examination, the infection with this bacterium can be detected. Additionally, there are individuals who exhibit such symptoms but are not infected with Helicobacter pylori. In summary, not everyone is infected with Helicobacter pylori, and not everyone who is infected shows symptoms.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Can I take vitamins B1 and B12 during treatment for Helicobacter pylori?

During the treatment of Helicobacter pylori, it is possible to consume Vitamin B1 and Vitamin B12. The treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection can consider using a bismuth-containing quadruple therapy for two weeks to eradicate the infection. During the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection, one can also eat fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins, such as kiwis, bananas, apples, etc. It is important to eat regularly and in moderation, consume light, easily digestible foods, and avoid overeating. Spicy and stimulative foods should be avoided, including strong alcohol, strong tea, coffee, etc. At the same time, patients with Helicobacter pylori infection should also ensure adequate rest.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Helicobacter pylori treatment for half a month, re-examination still positive, what could be the reason?

If a follow-up test for Helicobacter pylori is positive after half a month of treatment, it indicates that the treatment was not successful, and Helicobacter pylori is still present. At this point, it is necessary to adjust the medication plan and treat Helicobacter pylori again. The specific medication methods and treatment duration should be used under the guidance of a doctor. Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection requires the use of a bismuth-containing quadruple therapy for two weeks to eradicate it. Additionally, the diet should include an increased intake of fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Smoking and alcohol should be avoided. (Please follow the doctor’s prescription for medication use.)

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Is long-term bad breath definitely caused by Helicobacter pylori?

Chronic bad breath may be caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, but this is not always the case. Other causes of bad breath include dental issues, such as cavities and tooth decay. Additionally, stomach diseases can also cause bad breath, many of which are associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. After ruling out dental diseases, it is recommended to undergo a Carbon-14 breath test to determine if there is an infection of Helicobacter pylori. If the test for Helicobacter pylori infection is positive and accompanied by some stomach symptoms, such as upper abdominal bloating, burping, acid reflux, nausea, and vomiting, it is advisable to undergo a 14-day treatment for Helicobacter pylori. Generally, after treatment, the Helicobacter pylori can change from positive to negative.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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How many times a year should Helicobacter pylori be tested?

If Helicobacter pylori tests positive, then it is necessary to undergo standardized eradication treatment. A re-examination is needed one month after cessation of the eradication treatment to confirm whether the eradication was successful or the treatment failed. If the patient tests negative for Helicobacter pylori, then there is no need for repeated testing. Therefore, the frequency of testing for Helicobacter pylori within a year needs to be analyzed based on specific circumstances, using different testing methods and frequencies according to different situations. Patients infected with Helicobacter pylori should eat light, easily digestible foods, avoid overeating, and avoid spicy and irritating foods.