If you've been experiencing frequent stomach and gut issues or pain, it could be related to a common bacteria in the intestinal tract called Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori). Find out more about this gastrointestinal issue and how it can be treated by Drs. Todd Eisner, Theodore Doukides, and Stephen Miller at Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton in Delray Beach and Boca Raton, FL.
What Is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)?
If you have ever had a peptic ulcer, whether officially or unofficially diagnosed, you most likely have had Helicobacter pylori or H. Pylori in your upper digestive tract. This is a bacteria present in the gut that causes the inner lining of the stomach or small intestines to break down over time. Ulcers develop when stomach acids inflame and irritate the lining. H. Pylori is present in the upper digestive tract of many people, though some do not develop ulcers. This bacteria can be passed through food, water, or human contact.
Treating Helicobacter pylori
The treatment of Helicobacter pylori will likely start with resolving any active peptic ulcers. The ulcers and bacteria can be treated with medication, including antibiotics, H2-blockers, and Proton pump inhibitors. In extreme cases, a surgical procedure may be needed to repair holes in the intestinal tract. Your Delray Beach and Boca Raton, FL, gastroenterologist may also prescribe a probiotic to help balance good versus bad bacteria in your gut and prevent Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori).
Managing and Preventing H. Pylori
Once your case of H. pylori is treated, you will need to take consistent steps to avoid having future issues. Take this advice for managing and preventing problems with H. pylori:
- Maintain good personal hygiene, ensuring that you wash your hands thoroughly and often.
- Monitor the source of the water you are drinking to make sure that it is purified and safe to consume.
- Eat a diet high in probiotics (for example, yogurt, sauerkraut, kombucha, and cottage cheese).
- Avoid eating spicy foods, and reduce or eliminate consumption of alcoholic beverages.
- Keep your stress levels under control to reduce the chance of developing ulcers (get sufficient exercise, get fresh air, and prioritize self-care).
Get Diagnosed and Treated for GI Relief
While many people experience gastrointestinal problems but write them off as simply a stomachache, the problem could be something more specific, like Helicobacter pylori and peptic ulcers. To see if H. Pylori is the issue, call (561) 368-3455 for an evaluation with Dr. Todd Eisner, Dr. Theodore Doukides, or Dr. Stephen Miller at Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton in Delray Beach and Boca Raton, FL.