10 H Pylori Symptoms

By jolene

Reviewed: Dr. Mera

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Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gram-negative bacterium that is usually found in the stomach. Some experts believe that the bacterium may play an important role in the ecology of the stomach. It was first identified in 1982 by Australian scientists Barry Marshall and Robin Warren, who discovered that those infected also suffer from chronic gastritis or gastric ulcers. Previously, both these conditions were not believed to be due to microbial causes.

H. pylori has also been linked to the development of stomach cancer and duodenal ulcers. However, about 80 percent of infected individuals are asymptomatic. Currently, approximately 50 percent of the global population have H. pylori in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Infection seems to be more common in developing countries compared to developed countries.

Symptom #1: Halitosis

Halitosis is a term used to describe an unpleasant odor emanating from the oral cavity. H. pylori produces foul odor substances (volatile sulfur compounds) like hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and methyl mercaptan (CH3SH). Thus, H. pylori infection has been shown to be a major cause of bad breath.

However, other causes of bad breath are inadequate plaque control, and excessive bacterial growth in dental caries, periodontal disease. Also, diseases like diabetes or upper respiratory tract infections may cause this symptom.