What is the H Pylori Test and Infection?
The H. Pylori test is used to detect the Helicobacter Pylori infection which affects the stomach and upper section of the small intestine. The H. pylori bacteria infect a majority of the global adult population but do not show any symptoms during infection. Internally, however, the bacteria cause inflammation and ulcers. Some common symptoms of the condition include:
- Bloating
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Constant Burping
- Nausea
- Acid reflux
Different Types of Helicobacter Pylori Tests
There are mainly four different H.Pylori test options available. However, the blood test is not generally recommended anymore due to its inaccuracy in diagnosing the condition. All of these tests are listed below:
Urea Breath Test
The urea breath test diagnoses the infection by checking for presence of some substances in the mouth. Two weeks before administering the urea breath test, you must stop intake of Peptobismol, Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and any other bismuth medicines.
In the Helicobacter Pylori breath test, the patient is fed a mixture or pill containing urea . If the H. pylori bacteria are present in the patient, they break the urea from the breath test into carbon dioxide. This carbon dioxide is recorded on your breath after 10-15 minutes. The breath test not only identifies if you have the infection but also identifies whether the infection is cured.
Stool Test
The Helicobacter Pylori test of stool sample analyzes the stool for antigens of H. pylori infection. The aforementioned drugs from the H. pylori breath test will also interfere with the stool test so you must refrain from consuming them at least two weeks before getting tested.
Biopsy Test
The biopsy test requires taking a tissue sample from the stomach lining through the process of endoscopy. While this is the surest form of Helicobacter Pylori test, it is also invasive. Hence, the biopsy test is only preferred if the patient needs an endoscopy test for other diagnostic testing reasons.
Blood Test
Your blood sample might show antibody formation against the H. pylori bacteria which indicates an on-going infection in your body. However, the blood test isn’t as accurate as the other testing options.
Risks & Treatment after Administering H. Pylori Test Kit
After administering the H. Pylori Test Kit, if the infection is detected, the treatment is extensive. It includes a two week course of treatment with multiple medications. The gastro physician will determine the right course of treatment based on your past history of regular medications that can interfere with the treatment plan. After about 3-4 weeks of starting the treatment, the gastro physician would recommend administering another H. Pylori Test Kit to ensure that the infection is cured completely.
