#H. pylori Infection

H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) infection is a common bacterial infection that colonizes the lining of the stomach. This spiral-shaped bacterium is a primary cause of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and is a significant risk factor for gastric cancer. Many infected individuals remain asymptomatic, but symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and indigestion. Diagnosis involves breath tests, stool tests, or endoscopy, and treatment typically requires a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medications. Eradication of H. pylori can prevent recurrence of ulcers and reduce the risk of gastric malignancies.