subject: Helicobacter Pylori – facts that you should know [print this page] Helicobacter Pylori facts that you should know
Among the various diseases caused by bacteria, Helicobacter Pylori also deserves mention. The bacterium which is passed by contaminated food or water causes disease whose symptoms include ulcers, bleeding and other digestive problems. In extreme cases the symptoms may develop into stomach cancer.
The bacterium which is microaerophilic and Gram-negative requires oxygen for its survival. The bacterium by the name of Helicobacter pylori invades the protective tissues of duodenum and the stomach, bringing about changes therein. The changes which are damaging in nature are brought about by toxin released by the bacterium, which essentially thrives in acidic conditions of the stomach. Being highly moveable in nature the bacteria generally make their way through the stomach lumen in order to attach themselves to the lining. The acid prone content of the lumen encourages their easy survival.
Infection caused by the bacteria manifests itself in several ways. It manifests varied symptoms which differ from case to case. However the common manifestations are gastritis and inflammation. The severity of these two conditions decides the other above mentioned h pylori symptoms.
Possible infection of Helicobacter Pylori is diagnosed on the basis of dyspeptic symptoms which in turn include problems related to digestion, existence of bleeding ulcers and pain in the abdomen. There are pathological tests to specifically determine the presence of H. pylori in blood or in stool. The pathological tests include a blood test and a stool test. Endoscopy and a biopsy test of the infected tissues are more reliable than the other ones. A urine Elisa test may also point to the presence of the same bacteria.
The infection is cured by certain antibiotics which seek to decrease the acid production of the stomach. Usually two anti-biotins are simultaneously prescribed to a given patient. Drinking sufficient water to decrease the acidic content of the lumen can also be a therapy. Micohydrine may be added to water to increase its alkalinity. The water drunk after its addition may serve against the survival of the bacteria. A herbal tablet made from Bye Lori ii and a solution containing New Zealand's Manuca honey have also been suggested as alternative methods of curing to minimize the side effects of anti biotic. Besides these, healthy eating habits and avoiding over eating may also help to curb the symptoms.
Research is still being conducted with regards to the development of a vaccination which will ensure complete protection against this bacterium.
