Many people have stomach problems, like heartburn, right? Sometimes it can be a little indigestion, or it can be caused by a virus. But, you may have heard of a bacteria called ``Helicobacter pylori``. Today, we'll talk about what this bacteria is, what happens if it gets into the body, and how to treat it. It's important to know this because it can affect both young children and adults.
What is Helicobacter pylori?
Simply put, this `Helicobacter pylori` is a type of bacteria . It's like tiny germs that we can't see with our eyes. When these enter our stomach, that is, the stomach, they can cause various types of digestive system diseases.
The main things that can be caused by this bacteria are:
- Gastritis: This is when the inner wall, or lining, of the stomach becomes inflamed, swollen, and sore. Many people also call this 'gas' or 'stomach ache', right? This is the most common condition.
- Peptic Ulcers: These are also called 'stomach ulcers'. Ulcers can form in the stomach, the upper part of the small intestine (the first part of the small intestine), and sometimes even in the esophagus (the food pipe). Just like ulcers can form in the mouth, ulcers can also form inside the stomach.
- If these conditions are left untreated for a long time, there is a risk that, although rare, they may develop into stomach cancer. That is why we should not take this `(H. pylori)` infection lightly. Early detection and treatment are very important.
But you need to remember one thing. Every time children get stomach aches, the cause is not this `(H. pylori)` bacteria. There are so many other reasons why young children get stomach aches! It could be indigestion, it could be some kind of viral infection, some children complain that their stomach hurts when they are too lazy to go to school, right? It could be stress, or it could be an emergency like appendicitis. So don't be afraid of `(H. pylori)` for every stomach ache.
What are the symptoms of this (H. pylori) infection?
What's amazing is that many people who have this `(H. pylori)` bacteria in their bodies don't show any symptoms . That is, they don't even know they have this infection. As long as the bacteria are in the body, it's like there's no problem.
However, sometimes when this bacteria starts working and causes problems, symptoms start to appear. These are often symptoms of a condition called `Gastritis` or `Peptic Ulcer`.
Symptoms of gastritis in young children:
If a young child develops a condition called gastritis due to H. pylori, they may experience the following symptoms:
- Nausea (feeling like vomiting)
- Vomiting
- Stomach ache (especially in the upper abdomen)
- Feeling full or bloated (feeling full even after eating a small amount of food)
Symptoms of peptic ulcers in older children and adults:
When older children and adults develop a peptic ulcer, the main symptom is often a constant burning pain in the stomach. To be precise, this is felt under the chest, just below the ribs, and above the navel. Some people also call it 'heartburn'. This pain is especially worse when the stomach is empty. This means that the pain can come suddenly when the meal is late or when going to bed at night. However, the pain seems to decrease a little after eating a little, drinking a glass of milk, or taking an antacid medicine prescribed by a doctor.
What if the stomach wounds bleed? This is dangerous!
Sometimes, when this `Peptic Ulcer` condition becomes severe, the wounds can bleed. If this happens, you may experience these dangerous symptoms:
- Hematemesis: This means vomiting blood. The blood may be bright red, or the vomit may be black or brown, like coffee grounds.
- Black or bloody stools (Melena): If your stools are tarry, black, and shiny, it is a sign of bleeding in the stomach. Sometimes, there may be red blood in the stools.
If you notice any of these symptoms , you should see a doctor immediately, without delay. These are not things you can just ignore at home. Prompt treatment is essential.
How does this (H. pylori) get into our bodies?
Now let's see how this `(H. pylori)` bacteria is transmitted from person to person, or from the environment to us. It is important to know this, because then we can be careful.
The main way this bacteria enters our bodies is through contaminated food, water, or eating utensils. For example, if we eat from a plate that has been used by someone with `(H. pylori)` infection and has not been properly washed, we can get it. We should also be careful about eating undercooked food, especially from places where hygiene is poor.
Also, this infection is more common in densely populated areas, where there is no clean water or proper waste disposal systems . This situation is more common in developing countries of the world.
Another thing is that this bacteria can also be transmitted through saliva and other body fluids . That is, it can be transmitted through close contact, for example, eating from the same plate, drinking from the same water bottle, or if the saliva of an infected person is transmitted to another person. Therefore, if someone in the family has this infection, it is better for others to be careful.
How does a doctor diagnose this (H. pylori) infection?
You might think, 'Okay, I have these symptoms too, so I probably have H. pylori.' But, as mentioned before, the problems caused by H. pylori can also be seen in many other diseases. So, doctors do various tests to find out if this is an H. pylori infection. It's hard to tell just by looking at the symptoms.
Here are some such tests:
- Endoscopy: This is often the most accurate method. In this, you are put to sleep (maybe just your throat is numbed), and the doctor inserts a small, flexible tube called an endoscope down your throat to look at your stomach and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). There is a small camera at the end of this tube. The doctor can then see inside, to see if there are any ulcers or inflammation. At the same time, a small piece of tissue is taken from the stomach wall to check for infection and the presence of the bacteria (H. pylori). This is nothing to worry about.
- Blood Tests: This tests to see if there are any antibodies in our body against the bacteria (H. pylori). Antibodies are special proteins that our immune system makes to fight off a germ. However, a positive test does not necessarily mean that we have an infection. It is possible that we have had an infection before and recovered. Therefore, it is difficult to make a decision based on this alone.
- Breath Tests: In this, you are given a special liquid (containing urea) to drink, and then your breath is tested after a while. The bacteria (H. pylori) breaks down the urea in the liquid and produces carbon dioxide. This is detected by measuring the amount of carbon dioxide. This test takes a while, does not show the severity of the infection, and is a bit difficult for young children to do.
- Stool Tests: This tests a sample of your stool for the presence of H. pylori bacteria (proteins). This is also a relatively simple test. Like the breath test, it cannot tell the severity of the infection, but it can tell if the infection is present.
The doctor will evaluate your condition and decide to perform one or more of these tests.
Okay, now how do you treat this (H. pylori) infection?
The good news is, there are effective treatments for these `(H. pylori)` infections! Doctors use antibiotics for this.
Since it is usually difficult to completely eliminate this bacteria with just one antibiotic, doctors often prescribe several types of antibiotics (two or three) together. We call this `combination therapy`. These medications have to be taken continuously for about 7 to 14 days. At the same time, antacids or other strong acid-reducing medications (e.g. `Proton Pump Inhibitors`) are given to reduce the problems caused by stomach acid and to help the wounds heal.
If this antibiotic treatment is done properly, many cases of gastritis and peptic ulcers caused by H. pylori, especially those in the small intestine, can be successfully cured.
However, as mentioned earlier, if someone has severe symptoms, such as bleeding from the stomach or small intestine, they will be hospitalized and possibly treated with intravenous (through a vein) medication.
How can you, as a parent, help your child?
If your doctor tells you that your child has an H. pylori infection, there are some important things you can do.
The first and most important thing is to give your child antibiotics exactly as prescribed by the doctor, in the prescribed dose, and for the prescribed period of time. Sometimes the child may feel a little better in two or three days. Do not stop the medication immediately. You must give the full course. Otherwise, the bacteria may not be completely eliminated and the illness may worsen, or the bacteria may change to become resistant to the medication.
To help reduce stomach pain, pay attention to your child's meals. Don't let your stomach be empty all the time, and get them used to a regular eating pattern. It may be better to give them 5 or 6 small meals a day. It is also a good idea to reduce spicy, oily, and sour foods. Let your child rest for a while after each meal.
Another important thing is to not give your child aspirin, aspirin-containing medications, pain relievers like ibuprofen, or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without your doctor's advice. These can further irritate the stomach or cause bleeding.
Is there a way to avoid this (H. pylori) infection?
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine yet for this `(H. pylori)` bacteria. But, fear not! We can protect our families from many diseases and reduce the risk of getting an `(H. pylori)` infection by following these simple steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water regularly. This is the most important thing. You should wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before preparing food, and before eating.
- Avoid eating food that you are not sure has been prepared safely. Think twice about eating food that is sold on the street, is not properly sealed, or is covered in flies. Eat as much clean, home-cooked food as possible.
- Always drink water from a clean, safe source. It's best to drink boiled water. Always carry a bottle of clean water with you when you go out.
By following these habits, you can protect yourself not only from `(H. pylori)`, but also from many other infectious diseases.
When should we definitely see a doctor?
There are some symptoms that, if you notice , you should see a doctor without delay, as they could be signs of a dangerous condition.
If you or your child has any of these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately:
- A sudden, unbearable, severe stomach ache.
- If there is blood in the vomit, or if the vomit is black like coffee grounds.
- If the stool is bloody, tarry, or has blood mixed in with the stool.
- If you have a persistent burning, stabbing pain in your chest, below your ribs, especially if the pain is relieved by eating, drinking milk, or taking an antacid. (This could be a sign of a peptic ulcer, so you should tell your doctor.)
Don't stay home at a time like this, see a qualified doctor immediately.
So, what are the most important things we should take home from this story? (Take-Home Message)
Okay, we've talked a lot about this Helicobacter pylori, haven't we? In summary, here are the most important things you need to keep in mind:
- H. pylori is a bacteria that can cause stomach inflammation (gastritis) and stomach ulcers (peptic ulcers). However, it is not the cause of all stomach problems.
- Many people have this but do not show symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they may include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating.
- Cleanliness is very important! It can be spread through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Therefore, washing hands and eating clean food and drinks is essential.
- Doctors have things like endoscopy, breath tests, and stool tests to diagnose this. Also, it can be cured very well with antibiotics.
- If the doctor prescribes medication, it is very important to take it exactly and on time.
- If you see dangerous signs like vomiting blood or bloody stools, don't delay, see a doctor immediately.
Finally, if you or your child has a persistent stomach problem, it is wise to see a doctor to find out the exact cause and seek advice, rather than simply dismissing it as 'gas'. Don't make your own decisions and go for medication based on hearsay. Your health is worth it!
` Helicobacter pylori, Helicobacter pylori, stomach inflammation, gastritis, stomach ulcers, peptic ulcers, stomach diseases
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