Is Helicobacter treated? Almost everyone has Helicobacter bacteria, how to recognize it and how to fight it? Helicobacter pylori treatment regimen

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Table of contents

1. The main signs of Helicobacteriosis: Helicobacter-associated gastritis and gastroduodenitis
2. Symptoms of Helicobacter-associated gastritis and gastroduodenitis
3. Pyloric Helicobacter and erosion of the stomach and duodenum
4. Why Helicobacter pylori causes stomach ulcers and how to treat them - video
5. The importance of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori in the development of stomach cancer. Signs of malignant degeneration in chronic atrophic gastritis and gastric ulcers
6. Dysbacteriosis (dysbiosis) and irritable bowel syndrome
7. Helicobacter pylori and skin allergies. Symptoms of Helicobacter-associated atopic dermatitis
8. There are no acne, but I myself notice the smell from my mouth. At the same time, there are no caries. Will Helicobacter eradication help me?
9. Does Helicobacter pylori infection cause symptoms such as fever and cough?
10. Do I need to treat Helicobacter pylori if I am planning a pregnancy?
11. Why is Helicobacter pylori dangerous? Possible consequences of helicobacteriosis

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

The main signs of Helicobacteriosis: Helicobacter-associated gastritis and gastroduodenitis

After the discovery of existence Helicobacter pylori medicine has been enriched with knowledge about new diseases: Helicobacter-associated gastritis and gastroduodenitis.

Helicobacter-associated gastritis is also called gastritis B(from the first letter of the Latin word for “bacterium”) and accounts for about 80% of cases of chronic gastritis. This disease has a number of characteristic features, such as:
1. Normal or (more often) increased secretion of gastric juice.
2. Superficial changes in the epithelium with a tendency to form erosions.
3. The lesion is predominantly in the antrum (end section).

It should be noted that with a long course of Helicobacter-associated gastritis, the process spreads from the antrum to the entire surface of the stomach, and superficial changes in the mucous membrane are replaced by deep ones.

In this case, atrophy of the glands that produce hydrochloric acid and proteolytic enzymes occurs in the stomach, and the gastric epithelium is replaced by intestinal epithelium (intestinal metaplasia). As a result, the secretion of gastric juice decreases and acidity drops.

At this stage, as a rule, Helicobacter pylori is no longer detected, since the habitat becomes unsuitable for it.

Often, Helicobacter pylori simultaneously colonizes the antrum of the stomach and duodenum, leading to their joint inflammation - gastroduodenitis.

Symptoms of Helicobacter-associated gastritis and gastroduodenitis

For initial and advanced stages Helicobacter-associated gastritis is characterized by symptoms of inflammation of the gastric mucosa, occurring with increased or (less often) normal acidity, namely:

• heartburn, sour belching;
• normal or increased appetite;
• pain in the epigastrium (under the stomach), appearing one and a half to two hours after eating;
• tendency to constipation.

For last stage Helicobacter-associated gastritis is characterized by signs of atrophy of the gastric mucosa, such as:

• feeling of heaviness in the epigastrium after eating (indigestion);
• dull pain in the stomach (under the stomach and in the left hypochondrium);
• tendency to diarrhea, which is associated with a decrease in the barrier function of hydrochloric acid;
• dryness and metallic taste in the mouth;
• belching of air, eaten food, often rotten;
• weight loss;
• the appearance of cracks in the corners of the mouth ("jams").

In cases where Helicobacter pylori spreads to the duodenum , the symptoms of chronic gastritis are complemented by signs of duodenitis, such as:

• belching of bile or bitterness in the mouth;
• nausea and vomiting;
• pain in the right hypochondrium (with the spread of the inflammatory process to the distal part of the duodenum).

Pyloric Helicobacter and erosion of the stomach and duodenum

Helicobacter pylori-associated gastritis and gastroduodenitis are quite often combined with the formation of erosions in the gastroduodenal zone. Factors that contribute to this development include:

• psycho-emotional stress (adaptation disease is often accompanied by the formation of erosions in the stomach and duodenum);
• errors in diet (rough, spicy, hot food and alcohol);
• coffee abuse, smoking;
• taking certain medications (salicylates, glucocorticoids, reserpine, digitalis, etc.);
• diseases of the organs of the hepatoduodenal zone (liver, pancreas, gall bladder);
• diabetes mellitus (severe forms).

Unlike ulcers, erosions are completely epithelialized during healing, without leaving a scar or deforming the surface of the mucous membrane. However, many of their symptoms resemble those of ulcerative lesions of the stomach and duodenum:

• local pain in the epigastric region (in the projection of the resulting erosion);
• severe pain syndrome that occurs 1-1.5 hours after eating;
• heartburn, sour belching;
• nausea, vomiting.

Studies have shown that approximately 20% of patients with gastric and duodenal erosions caused by Helicobacter pylori have gastric bleeding, manifested by bloody or coffee-ground vomiting, as well as pasty black stools (melena).

However, hidden bleeding is even more common, which leads to the development of anemia and gradual exhaustion of the patient. The situation is aggravated by the fact that many patients are afraid to eat due to severe pain and lose a lot of weight.

Helicobacter pylori bacillus and stomach ulcer. Main signs of pathology

Today, the fundamental role of Helicobacter pylori in the development of gastric and duodenal ulcers is considered fully proven. However, genetic factors are also important.

Thus, hereditary predisposition is detected in 30-40% of patients with gastric ulcers. In such cases, the disease is much more severe (frequent exacerbations, often accompanied by bleeding, a high probability of developing complications, etc.).

TO genetically determined risk factors also include:

• male gender (the ratio of men and women among “ulcer sufferers” is 4:1);
• first blood group (increases the likelihood of ulcers by 35%);
• the ability to taste phenylthiourea;
• characteristic fingerprint pattern.

In addition, factors predisposing to the occurrence of erosions contribute to the development of gastric and duodenal ulcers associated with Helicobacter pylori. Caffeine and nicotine play an important role in the formation of ulcers. These substances prevent the epithelization of erosions and cause rapid progression of peptic ulcers (of course, their popular combination - coffee with a cigarette on an empty stomach - is especially dangerous).

Typical sign Associated with Helicobacter pylori peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum is a characteristic pain syndrome:
1. Pain clearly localized in the projection of the ulcerative defect (with a gastric ulcer in the pit of the stomach in the midline, with a duodenal ulcer - in the pit of the stomach on the right).
2. Hunger pains that appear 6-7 hours after eating and disappear after eating or drinking a glass of warm milk (a symptom characteristic exclusively of peptic ulcer disease).
3. Night pain.

Another very characteristic symptom of peptic ulcer disease is the cyclical nature of exacerbations of the disease. Relapses occur more often in the autumn-winter period. In addition, with a long course of the disease, patients note a peculiar cyclical occurrence of exacerbations with particularly severe symptoms: once every four to five years (small cycles) and once every seven to ten years (major cycles).

And finally, Helicobacter pylori-associated gastric and duodenal ulcers are characterized by a whole complex additional symptoms, which in themselves are nonspecific, but in their combination allow one to suspect the presence of this pathology:

• heartburn, sour belching (more common with stomach ulcers);
• nausea and vomiting that brings relief (associated with increased secretion of gastric juice, manifested during periods of exacerbation);
• appetite is normal or slightly increased, but patients are often afraid to eat due to severe pain;
• constipation;
• complaints of chilly limbs;
• cold damp palms;
• tendency to arterial hypotension (low blood pressure) and bradycardia (decreased heart rate).

Helicobacter-associated gastric or duodenal ulcer is dangerous due to the development of the following: complications:

• gastrointestinal bleeding;
• perforation of the ulcer with the development of diffuse peritonitis;
• penetration (germination of ulcers) into neighboring organs and tissues;
• cancerous degeneration of the ulcer;
• development of diseases of other organs of the gastrointestinal tract (chronic pancreatitis, cholecystitis, enterocolitis);
• general exhaustion of the patient.

Why Helicobacter pylori causes stomach ulcers and how to treat them - video

The importance of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori in the development of diseases such as stomach cancer. Signs of malignant degeneration in chronic atrophic gastritis and gastric ulcers

Bacterium Helicobacter pylori causes chronic gastritis B, which, over a long period of time, leads to atrophy of the gastric mucosa and the appearance of foci of intestinal metaplasia (areas of the mucous membrane covered with epithelial cells characteristic of the intestine).

This condition is considered precancerous by modern medicine. The fact is that any metaplasia (change of an existing cell type) is dangerous in relation to malignant degeneration. In addition, with atrophic gastritis, the secretion of gastric juice sharply decreases, many components of which (pepsin, antianemic factor, etc.) prevent the development of various types of neoplasms.

According to statistics, stomach cancer in 50% of cases develops against the background of atrophic gastritis, and in 46% as a result of the degeneration of a stomach ulcer. Helicobacter pylori-associated ulcers are also prone to cancerous transformation, especially with a long course of the disease.

In this case, a malignant tumor can develop both against the background of an existing ulcer, and after its radical healing (the appearance of cancer in the area of ​​the scar or on the inner surface of the stump of the removed stomach).

A typical sign of the development of a malignant tumor against the background of chronic atrophic gastritis or ulcers is a modification of the pain syndrome. The pain loses its characteristic connection with eating and becomes constant.

In addition, patients complain of nausea, loss of appetite, and become more picky about cooked foods. However, in cases where cancer develops against the background of atrophic gastritis, these symptoms may go unnoticed. In such cases, doctors pay attention to the so-called small signs syndrome, such as:

• general weakness, sharp decrease in working capacity;
• loss of interest in the surrounding reality;
• aversion to certain types of food, mainly fish and meat;
• sallow pallor of the face combined with yellowness of the sclera;
• increased irritability;

Helicobacter pylori intestinal: disease dysbacteriosis (dysbiosis) and irritable bowel syndrome

The discovery of Helicobacteriosis gave impetus to the search for the relationship between Helicobacter pylori-associated diseases (gastritis B, gastroduodenitis, gastric and duodenal ulcers) and such functional disorders of the small and large intestines as irritable bowel syndrome.

It turned out that with chronic gastroduodenitis associated with Helicobacter pylori, 80-100% of patients develop intestinal dysbiosis, and for patients with Helicobacter-associated ulcers, an almost one hundred percent prevalence of intestinal dysbiosis is characteristic.

At the same time, researchers note a correlation between the population of Helicobacter in the pyloric part of the stomach and duodenum and the severity of dysbiosis in other parts of the digestive tract, including the final part of the large intestine.

Dysbacteriosis is one of the most important factors in the development of such a fairly common pathology as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is believed that it is for this reason that among patients with IBS there are significantly more carriers of Helicobacter pylori than healthy individuals.

In addition, Helicobacter pylori directly disrupts the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, producing special toxins and disrupting the synthesis of hormones that regulate the motor activity of the digestive tube. So even in the absence of Helicobacter-associated diseases, Helicobacter pylori infection can manifest itself as symptoms of irritable bowel disease, such as:

• pain or discomfort in the intestines, relieved after bowel movements and/or passing gas;
• violation of stool frequency (more than three times a day or less than three times a week);
• pathological changes in the consistency of stool (hard “sheep-like” or mushy, watery stool);
• empty urge, feeling of incomplete bowel movement.

Irritable bowel syndrome, including those associated with Helicobacter pylori, is a functional disorder. Therefore, the appearance of signs of a disturbance in the general condition of the body (fever, malaise, muscle aches, etc.) and/or the presence of pathological inclusions such as blood or pus in the stool indicate an infectious disease (dysentery) or serious organic damage to the intestines (cancer, ulcerative colitis, etc.).

Helicobacter pylori and skin allergies. Symptoms of Helicobacter-associated atopic dermatitis

To date, the relationship between the bacterium Helicobacter pylori and the development of atopic dermatitis has been proven, which is a chronic allergic skin disease characterized by the periodic appearance of specific rashes on the face, neck, upper body, on the flexor surfaces of the elbow and knee joints, on the dorsum of the feet and palms, and in severe cases - throughout the body.

As a rule, the rashes are polymorphic in nature - that is, they consist of various elements - erythematous spots (areas of redness), protruding swellings reminiscent of a nettle burn, and blisters. With a mild course, the same type of rash in the form of urticaria may be observed.

A characteristic feature of atopic dermatitis is itching, which can have varying intensity (from mild to unbearable). The itching is worse at night, and scratching the affected areas usually brings short-term relief. However, in areas of scratching, inflammatory thickening of the skin quickly develops, and when a secondary infection occurs, long-healing purulent abrasions occur.

As a rule, atopic dermatitis occurs at a very young age (up to two years) and has the well-known name exudative diathesis. The very name of the disease (diathesis in translation means “propensity”) indicates a pathology with a genetic predisposition.

However, the vast majority of children successfully “outgrow” this pathology and say goodbye to the manifestations of skin allergies forever, while some patients are forced to unsuccessfully struggle with atopic dermatitis all their lives.

Clinical studies have shown that eradication of Helicobacter pylori in patients with atopic dermatitis in most cases leads to the disappearance of rashes. This was further evidence of the existence of Helicobacter-associated atopic dermatitis.

The progression of atopic dermatitis in helicobacteriosis is associated with the following features of this infection:
1. Helicobacter pylori disrupts the protective function of the gastric mucosa, so that many substances are absorbed that normally would not enter the blood directly from the stomach (we can say that as a result of Helicobacter pylori, the digestive tube returns to the period of infantile functional imperfection);
2. The prolonged presence of Helicobacter pylori in the stomach triggers a complex mechanism of immune-inflammatory reactions that contribute to the occurrence of allergic diseases, including atopic dermatitis;
3. There is a hypothesis about the production of specialized anti-Helicobacter immunoglobulin, which is involved in the development of allergic inflammation in atopic dermatitis.

Helicobacter pylori bacteria and rosacea (facial acne)

Helicobacter infection was found in 84% of patients with rosacea (rosacea). This is a skin disease characterized by the appearance of acne on the face, localized mainly in the skin of the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin.

This type of rash most often appears after 40 years, mainly in women. The disease has a chronic course. Sometimes the conjunctiva and cornea of ​​the eyes (the membrane covering the iris and pupil) are affected, causing symptoms such as photophobia, painful spasms of the eyelids, and watery eyes.

It has long been noticed that acne on the face in adulthood appears more often in patients with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. However, there is still conflicting data regarding the relationship between Helicobacter pylori and rosacea.

Many clinical studies have confirmed the disappearance of facial acne in most patients after complete eradication of Helicobacter pylori from the body.

Symptoms of Helicobacter pylori: acne on the face (photo)

I read that Helicobacter pylori is such a terrible bacterium that poisons a person’s life: it causes symptoms such as acne on the face and bad breath. I’m thinking of buying a breath test for Helicobacter: there are no acne, but I myself notice the smell from my mouth. At the same time, there are no caries. Will Helicobacter eradication help me?

Today it has already been proven that helicobacteriosis can cause bad breath. There are several mechanisms for the appearance of this symptom.

During its life, Helicobacter releases substances that form foul-smelling ammonia, which is necessary to protect the microorganism from the acidic environment of the stomach and immune cells.

In addition, Helicobacter disrupts the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, causing belching of air and stomach contents. The development of concomitant dysbiosis in the digestive tract is also of certain importance.

So eradication of Helicobacter pylori will definitely help eliminate bad breath. However, as many clinical studies have shown, not all patients completely got rid of this unpleasant symptom after curing helicobacteriosis.

The fact is that bad breath can be caused by many diseases. We would advise you to consult your dentist again, since the smell can be associated not only with dental diseases, but also with gum pathology.

Among the causes of bad breath, the second most common cause after dental pathology is diseases of the ENT organs, such as chronic tonsillitis, chronic pharyngitis, chronic sinusitis, etc. Therefore, consultation with an otolaryngologist is also advisable.

Does Helicobacter pylori infection cause symptoms such as fever and cough?

As a rule, Helicobacter pylori infection goes unnoticed by the body. In experiments on infection with Helicobacter pylori (the first such experiment was carried out by Marshall, the researcher who first described the bacterium Helicobacter pylori), approximately a week after infection (the so-called incubation period), some patients felt mild malaise, abdominal pain of unclear localization, upset stool (infrequent diarrhea), who self-destructed without treatment.

An increase in body temperature may indicate complications, such as, for example, penetration (germination) of an ulcer into other organs or perforation of a peptic ulcer with the development of peritonitis. However, in such cases, in addition to high temperature, there are other signs of a severe pathological process in the body.

So if, against the background of helicobacteriosis, your temperature rises and a cough appears, then we are most likely talking about the development of some independent disease (ARVI, acute bronchitis, etc.).

Helicobacter pylori and hair loss - what does modern medicine say about the relationship between these pathologies?

The fact is that hair loss can be caused by various reasons. With a long course of Helicobacter-associated diseases, such as chronic gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers, vitamin deficiency and general exhaustion of the body often develop, which leads to hair damage - it becomes dull, brittle and sparse.

In addition, modern medicine has established a clear relationship between carriage of Helicobacter pylori and a specific disease leading to hair loss. This is alopecia areata (literally: alopecia areata) - a pathology characterized by damage to the hair follicles due to an immune reaction.

Scientific studies have shown that among patients with alopecia areata there are much more carriers of Helicobacter pylori than in the general population. The likelihood of developing Helicobacter-associated alopecia areata is especially high in women and young people (under 29 years of age).

Scientists suggest that the main mechanism of hair damage in this pathology is cross-immune reactions activated by the presence of Helicobacter pylori.

Do I need to treat Helicobacter pylori if I am planning a pregnancy?

Like any chronic infection, Helicobacter pylori negatively affects the course of

As a result of long research by doctors, it was found that the bacterium Helicobacter pylori causes a number of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, but the question of whether treatment is necessary is controversial, since it is a normal inhabitant of the intestinal microflora, so its complete extermination, from a medical point of view, is unacceptable.

What is Helicobacter and what is its significance?

This bacterium lives in the stomach of any person, and yet, it causes diseases that develop only under special conditions of the internal environment, such as a decrease in immune status, hormonal disorders and stressful situations, as a result of which the percentage of microflora deviates towards Helicobacter and occurs a number of diseases (gastritis, peptic ulcer and even cancer). The importance of the bacterium lies in performing certain digestive functions. Helicobacter prefers to develop in the outlet (pyloric) section of the stomach and in the duodenal bulb.

Why does the disease occur and what are the symptoms?

The predominant route through which a microorganism can invade is nutritional (through the mouth). Basically, a larger percentage of people introduce this bacterium into their bodies in childhood - in the first 5-10 years of life - due to neglect of hygiene. Precisely due to the fact that infection occurs at a young age, this invasion is considered “children’s”. A very small percentage of the problem occurring is possible when kissing a sick person. The rapid proliferation of bacteria is characterized by special symptoms, such as:

When such bacteria multiply, patients often suffer from diarrhea.

• frequent urge to vomit;
• diarrhea followed by constipation;
• increased frequency of heartburn attacks;
• belching;
• pain in the abdomen and stomach;
• feeling of hunger, even after a hearty meal, overeating.

How dangerous is Helicobacter?

The main danger posed by this microorganism is the formation of ulcers in the gastrointestinal mucosa. Treatment of helicobacteriosis is aimed at the complete destruction of the microorganism to prevent the development of stomach ulcers. Another risk associated with Helicobacter is the possibility of an ulcerative lesion turning into cancer. Therefore, constant monitoring and monitoring of the state of the gastrointestinal tract is so important.

Is treatment necessary?

Doctors are not clear on the need to treat this disease. Some are for extermination, others are against. But in general, specific indications are required for this. These include stomach ulcers, cancer, and the presence of iron deficiency anemia. The main indication for eradication therapy is the presence of this disease in close relatives.

How is therapy carried out?

The bacterial infection is destroyed by taking three drugs at the same time.

Helicobacteriosis is treated with antibiotics. If the human body is infected with a strain of microorganism that is sensitive to them, the disease is cured in 95% of cases. If it is a resistant strain - 80-85%. The doctor always chooses a medicine that is easy to use so that the patient does not have difficulty taking it. Three lines of eradication drugs are offered.

Aimed at destroying Helicobacter pylori, it is based on the prescription of 3 drugs simultaneously, 2 of which are proton inhibitors and 1 is a proton inhibitor. This technique is called "triple". For the first 14 days, the patient additionally takes medications whose action is aimed at replenishing the lack of vitamins, macro- and microelements. The course of auxiliary therapy continues after the main one. At the end of the first stage, the patient passes, if one remains and the treatment did not help much, a repeat intervention is prescribed. Dietary nutrition based on the limitation of fatty, smoked, oily, spicy, flour, and sweet foods is considered important during drug therapy. The patient must be protected from stress, and it is important to get rid of bad habits.

Treatment is most effective if there are no ulcers in the intestines or stomach.

The “dark side of the coin” is that, in addition to Helicobacter, the antibiotic also kills microorganisms belonging to the beneficial intestinal microflora, so their use must be carried out strictly following the doctor’s recommendations. To improve the immune status and general tone of the body, the course of treatment is carried out in conjunction with a diet, which continues afterwards.

Scientists have long established that Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that has caused many problems and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, ranging from gastritis to stomach cancer. However, statistics also give a different figure - Helicobacter Pylori is present in the body of every person, but provokes the disease only in half of the cases. The question naturally arises: is it necessary to treat Helicobacter pylori or leave this time bomb alone, in which cases will it be appropriate and in which not?

In what cases is it worth fighting bacteria?

On the question itself - is it necessary to treat Helicobacter pylori, the opinion of doctors is clearly divided and depends on many factors and issues. The debates themselves were heated and long, but in the end, doctors came to a common consensus and reduced their decisions on the issue of combating the bacterium to the following postulates:

• Helicobacter to treat or not– for duodenal ulcers and stomach ulcers, treatment is mandatory;
• course of antibacterial therapy indicated to all close relatives of a patient diagnosed with stomach cancer;
• eradication indicated by doctors when diagnosing the atrophic form of gastritis - this type of pathology is a precancerous condition, but not a stomach ulcer;
• Treatment should be taken if there is a lack of iron in the body and the development of anemia– the main thing here is to diagnose the root cause, when the patient simply loses iron or it is not absorbed from foods due to the negative effect of bacteria.

All the situations described above refer to those cases when Helicobacter pylori has already been diagnosed. But in this case, a logical question arises: is it worth looking for this bacterium in the stomachs of all patients complaining of certain ailments?

When should you look for Helicobacter pylori?

In this matter, doctors state the following:

1. Proton pump inhibitors do not help with gastrointestinal pain– this is a group of medications that allows you to reduce the level of aggressiveness of gastric juice;
2. When diagnosing symptoms such as low iron levels in the body and fatigue are the first signs that indicate the development of cancer;
3. As part of a routine examination and hospitalization– the examination is carried out to identify bacteria even when there are no attacks of pain in the abdominal area. In this case, it is recommended to do a biopsy and gastroscopy every 5-7 years;
4. The patient is a candidate at risk when his close relatives are sick or have previously had stomach cancer;
5. The examination revealed gastrointestinal dysplasia, as well as intestinal metaplasia or an atrophic form of gastritis.

Is treatment for Helicobacter pylori beneficial?

In this regard, doctors give an answer taking into account several points and factors.

If the patient is diagnosed with an ulcer.

Until the recent discovery of this bacterium, which, according to most scientists, is the main provocateur of the development of problems with the gastrointestinal tract, the main root cause of the development of ulcers was considered to be the increased acidity of gastric juice. Previously, doctors used drugs that lowered the level of acidity, but now it is known that it is worth fighting first of all with pathogenic microflora.

If there is no ulcer.

Is it necessary to treat Helicobacter if there is no ulcer - a good question often asked by patients. 1 patient out of 10 who is diagnosed with dyspepsia, the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, but does not have an ulcer as a result of treatment for the pathogenic bacterium, will feel many times better. Many doctors are inclined to believe that this will not only improve the patient’s condition, but will also serve as a prevention of gastrointestinal problems caused by bacteria.

When diagnosing problems with the gastrointestinal tract, but it is not known whether there is an ulcer, it all depends on the situation. Today, when diagnosing symptoms such as weight loss and bouts of vomiting, problems with swallowing, it is worth undergoing an examination using an endoscope. If there are no such negative symptoms, the doctor can prescribe a course of treatment against Helicobacter pylori without diagnosis through an endoscope, but by simply testing for its presence in the body.

Treatment of Helicobacter pylori - basic methods and regimens

The course of treatment for Helicobacter pylori is based on medication– at least 3 drugs and 2 of which are, of course, antibiotics. In addition to antibiotics, the doctor also prescribes a drug - a proton pump inhibitor, and doctors call this a triple treatment regimen.

Regarding the treatment regimen, there are its own laws and postulates. At the very beginning, for 2 weeks, the patient takes the prescribed course of a triple treatment regimen, and also takes medications that help restore the lack of vitamins, macro- and microelements in the body, both during and after taking antibiotics.

Afterwards, the patient is again tested for the presence of Helicobacter pylori in his body - if it is, then the course of treatment is repeated. In addition to the medication course, the doctor monitors the patient’s lifestyle and diet - it is recommended to exclude any stress and bad habits, the diet should be rich in vitamins, but not contain fatty and smoked foods, fatty and spicy foods, flour and sweets.

Content

Infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) are caused by various microorganisms. One of them is Helicobacter pylori. This harmful specimen was found more than 50 years ago and is the only microbe of its kind that adapts to the gastric environment. Let's look at the symptoms and treatment of Helicobacter pylori and find out the reasons for the appearance of the bacterium in the body.

What is Helicobacter pylori

Infectious lesions are often provoked by the type of microbe Helicobacter pylori. It is a gram-negative microorganism and lives in the stomach. The bacterium Helicobacter pylori is the source of many inflammatory processes in the abdominal cavity: ulcers, gastritis, erosion, malignant formations. Find out all about the first symptoms and treatment when bacteria are detected in the body.

Symptoms

A certain number of people infected with Helicobacter pylori infection note that the disease was asymptomatic. A child or adult who has no signs of illness is often diagnosed with a mild form of gastritis that does not threaten health. Such facts do not mean that Helicobacter pylori is normal for the body. Other infected people experience the following symptoms of the disease:

• pain in the stomach;
• chills, sometimes a slight increase in body temperature;
• bloating;
• stomach upset;
• nausea and vomiting.

Some infected people experience symptoms of Helicobacter pylori that appear on the face. Pimples appear on the skin, which are difficult to miss. Sometimes there is an unpleasant odor from the mouth. Doctors emphasize the fact that even if the signs of pylori have disappeared, this is not a guarantee of recovery. It is necessary to undergo tests and undergo a course of complex therapy if the diagnosis is confirmed.

How is the bacterium transmitted?

An infectious disease enters the human body in the following cases:

• through physical contact;
• cough and sneezing;
• through non-compliance with hygiene rules;
• use of shared cutlery and crockery.

Pylori enters the human body when dirty or poorly processed vegetables, fruits, and poor-quality water are consumed. Children often become infected with Helicobacter pylori infection through their mother's saliva. In most cases, infection of one household member or employee at work with the Helicobacter bacterium leads to general infection of the family or team.

Helicobacter pylori treatment regimen

It is advised to take the symptoms and treatment of Helicobacter pylori seriously. Diseases caused by stomach bacteria will progress, undermining your health more and more. Today, there are two main methods for eliminating gastric microbes: with medications and folk recipes.

Medicines

Is it necessary to treat Helicobacter pylori? How dangerous is this infection to health? The unequivocal answer is yes, therapy is mandatory. Timely prescribed treatment will help avoid the development of gastrointestinal diseases. There is a chance to get rid of the bacteria by taking antibiotics. Doctors recommend an eradication approach to the problem. Eradication is the complete destruction of Helicobacter pylori from the body.

There are several complex treatment regimens against the microbe:

• first-line program: Clarithromycin, Rabeprazole, Amoxicillin;
• second-line regimen: “Bismuth”, “Metranidazole”, “Subsalicylate” (is a repeated course if, according to the results of the first treatment, the bacterium remains in the body).

Along with the use of antibiotics, it is necessary to support the body with probiotics - drugs that enrich the intestines with acid, which has a detrimental effect on pathogens of infectious diseases. For example, Bifiform or Linex tablets are excellent for these purposes. Antibacterial therapy, which is prescribed on time, allows you to completely get rid of Helicobacter pylori without complications.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine has a wide range of recipes in stock. How to cure Helicobacter pylori using grandma's techniques? Doctors advise combining herbs with medications to enhance the effect. Be sure to consult a specialist before using folk tinctures. We offer several effective recipes to destroy Helicobacter pylori without antibiotics.

1. Propolis tincture. Take the medicine in a dosage of 10 drops per glass of water. Duration of therapy is one to two months. Grind 30 g of propolis, pour 100 ml of alcohol. Place the ingredients in a glass bottle and securely close the lid. Leave for 10 to 14 days in a dark place.
2. We will need elecampane, centaury, and St. John's wort. Place the components of the medicine in equal parts into any deep container and fill with water (2 tablespoons of the mixture per 1 liter of liquid). Let it sit for about 5-6 hours. Strain, consume 100 ml three times a day after meals.
3. A decoction of flax seeds plays the role of a “doctor” perfectly. Prepare one tablespoon of dried flaxseeds and pour into a plate or bowl. Fill them with 0.5 liters of water and put on fire. Boil the drug for approximately 6-7 minutes, then leave for 2 hours and filter. We drink the resulting healthy decoction before meals, 1 tbsp. l. The treatment course is 2 months.

Nutrition for Helicobacter pylori

Diet when treating a disease is a necessary measure. Doctors often prescribe category 1 medical nutrition for patients with infectious ailments of the gastrointestinal tract. This diet significantly reduces the load on the digestive system and improves it. The list of products prohibited for consumption varies, depending on the nuances of each individual case of Helicobacter pylori. Basic nutrition rules:

• Do not eat too hot/cold foods;
• food intake should be balanced;
• products with the maximum content of nutrients and vitamins;
• drinking large amounts of mineral water with soda or purified water;
• It is recommended to eat 5 approaches per day with medium portions.

Authorized products:

• only white types of bread, crackers, dried bread;
• meat and fish;
• eggs;
• soups cooked in low-fat broth;
• pasta, cereals;
• vegetables: potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, beets;
• berries: strawberries, raspberries.

Prohibited products:

• fatty meat and fish;
• spicy, salty dishes;
• mushrooms;
• canned food;
• alcohol;
• baking;
• sausages, processed and smoked cheeses;
• sweets.

Diagnosis of the disease

To identify the disease, a number of medical tests are prescribed. Inflammation in the digestive system caused by pylori is detected after:

• blood tests to identify characteristic antibodies;
• PCR method in studies of saliva, feces, dental plaque;
• breath tests;
• analysis of a biopsy of the mucous membrane under a microscope (taken using FEGDS).

Prevention

Helicobacter pylori infection often recurs, and the immune system is unable to protect itself from relapses. To avoid the bacteria Helicobacter pylori entering the body, it is recommended to follow simple preventive measures:

• reduce frequent physical contact with strangers (for example, kissing, hugging);
• stop drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking;
• Be sure to wash your hands well before eating;
• Do not use personal hygiene products that belong to strangers.

Video

Helicobacter pylori infection is a serious disease, but if you adhere to some rules and follow all the doctor’s recommendations, the treatment will be as effective as possible. After watching the video, you will learn about the main symptoms, causes and essence of the disease. A qualified doctor will talk about diagnostic measures for identifying and treating Helicobacter pylori and explain in detail how to avoid infection.

Helicobacter pylori is a unique pathogenic microorganism that is the causative agent of such a dangerous disease as helicobacteriosis. This is a pathology that often affects the stomach, but can also develop in the duodenum.

The bacterium received its name due to the environment in which it lives - the pyloric part of the stomach. The peculiarity of the microorganism is that it can resist even stomach acid. The bacterium has flagella, with the help of which it moves freely along the walls of the stomach or is securely attached to them.

Helicobacter Pylori can lead to the development of many gastrointestinal diseases, since, when multiplying, it causes irritation of its mucous membranes and, as a result, inflammatory processes. In this case, we are talking not only about gastritis or peptic ulcers, but also about the development of the oncological process. If you start treatment in a timely manner, you can prevent dangerous consequences that can be caused by the activity of this bacterium.

History of discovery

Spiral-shaped pathogenic microorganisms that live in the human stomach were described 100 years ago by Polish professor W. Jaworski. After some time, the scientist G. Bidzodzero discovered the same bacteria on the mucous membranes of the stomach of animals. For many years they turned a blind eye to this infection, unaware of its danger, but in the late 70s of the last century, scientist Robert Warren noted that these bacteria live on the inflamed gastric mucosa.

As it turned out, the life activity of these microorganisms was studied, albeit not completely, and described by German scientists. However, in those days they did not attach much importance to this. Warren, joining forces with Barry Marshall, began conducting research to study in detail the characteristics of these bacteria. For a long period of time, it was not possible to isolate a culture of microorganisms, but scientists were still lucky. During the Easter holidays, laboratory staff accidentally left plates with bacterial cultures for 5 days rather than 2. Thanks to this incident, scientists recorded the growth of colonies of unknown microorganisms.

The bacteria were originally named Campylobacter pyloridis because their characteristics resembled microorganisms belonging to the genus Campylobacter. In 1983, scientists first published the results of their research. However, a little later, the researchers had to refute their previous discoveries, since it soon became clear that the discovered representatives of the pathogenic microflora were not related to the genus Campylobacter. Based on this, the discovered microorganisms were renamed Helicobacter pylori.

To prove the ability of the microorganism to cause ulcerative disease, B. Marshall ingested its culture in 1985. However, it was not an ulcer that developed, but gastritis, which went away on its own. Thanks to this experiment, the scientist was able to prove that the bacterium Helicobacter Pylori is the cause of the development of gastritis. In 2005, Warren and Marshall received the Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology for their sensational discovery.

Features of the bacterium

The first feature of this microorganism is its ability to withstand a very acidic gastric environment, while most bacteria and viruses simply die. Helicobacter pylori can adapt to the level of gastric acidity using 2 mechanisms:

1. When it enters the stomach, the bacterium begins to move through the mucous membranes. She does this with the help of her flagella. Hiding in the mucous membranes of the stomach, the microorganism protects their cells from excess acids. To put it simply, the bacterium “selects” the most optimal habitat for itself.
2. H. pylori causes the production of ammonia, which reduces stomach acid. Due to this, the microorganism can be conveniently located on the walls of the organ, remaining in its place for many years.

The second feature of the bacterium is its ability to cause inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract. As it multiplies, it causes slow destruction of gastric cells, and the substances it secretes cause chronic inflammatory processes and gastritis. When the mucous membranes of the duodenum and stomach are weakened, ulcers and erosions begin to form, which increase the risk of developing cancer. For this reason, many gastroenterologists rightly consider Helicobacter Pylori to be a provocateur of oncological processes in the stomach.

You can get rid of the pathology only after taking a course of antibiotic therapy. With the help of antimicrobial drugs, the level of stomach acidity is regulated. Only a gastroenterologist can prescribe specific medications, after conducting the necessary examinations and referring the patient for additional instrumental diagnostic procedures.

How is H. pylori transmitted?

Infection with this bacterium can mainly be done in two ways – oral-fecal and oral-oral. However, there is an opinion that the microorganism can be transmitted from a cat to its owner, or when the infection is transmitted by flies. Young children are most susceptible to infection.

Transmission from one person to another occurs in 3 ways:

1. Iatrogenic when infection is caused by diagnostic procedures. Thus, an infection can be acquired during endoscopy or other poorly sterilized medical instruments that have had direct contact with the patient’s gastric mucosa.
2. Fecal-oral. The bacterium is excreted along with the stool. You can become infected with the bacteria through contact with contaminated water or food.
3. Oral-oral. Gastroenterologists are confident that H. pylori also lives in the oral cavity. Therefore, the infection can be transmitted by kissing, using someone else's toothbrush or poorly washed cutlery.

Although Helicobacter Pylori is capable of causing histological gastritis in all infected people, signs of pathology appear in rare cases. Less often than gastritis, gastric ulcer develops, and extremely rarely, stomach cancer develops.

Symptoms of infection

After entering the stomach, the bacterium begins to actively secrete its waste products. They irritate the mucous membrane, resulting in inflammation. Clinical symptoms of Helicobacter Pylori depend on its form.

There are five of them, let’s look at each of them in more detail:

1. Latent or asymptomatic form, when an infected person does not experience any alarming symptoms, especially if his immunity is strong enough to resist Helicobacter. But even if the clinical picture does not manifest itself, the person is still a carrier and can infect others. If bacteria remain in the stomach for a long time, severe complications may occur, one of which is stomach cancer.
2. – a disease manifested by epigastric pain, nausea, loss of appetite. The disease can become chronic with periodic relapses.
3. . This pathology is one of the main manifestations of helicobacteriosis. During an exacerbation, the patient complains of stomach pain, attacks of nausea, sometimes with vomiting, headaches, loss of appetite. The patient suffers from heartburn, a feeling of bloating, belching, and attacks of flatulence. Nonspecific symptoms also occur in the form of bleeding gums and.
4. when the pathological process affects the duodenum. The clinical picture resembles the symptoms of gastritis, but with gastroduodenitis, stool disorders, in particular constipation, are possible. The patient loses his appetite, complains of nausea, and has trouble sleeping. Changes in the mucous membranes are detected only during endoscopy. Lesions may be mild, moderate or severe.
5. , which can also occur for other reasons (alcoholism, smoking, frequent stress, hazardous work, etc.). Erosions and ulcers form when the mucous membranes of the stomach are damaged more deeply. The pathology manifests itself with a large number of symptoms: pain in the stomach, nausea, the appearance of a white coating on the tongue, nausea, flatulence, vomiting, indigestion, heaviness in the epigastric region, heartburn, etc.

If we talk about non-gastric symptoms, then a patient with helicobacteriosis will experience the appearance of a subcutaneous or skin rash in the form of small white or pink pimples. As a rule, they are localized on the face. Often this disease causes the development of erythema.

The photo shows the symptoms of Helicobacter pylori: acne on the face.

Analysis for Helicobacter pylori

Diagnosis can be invasive (endoscopy followed by biopsy of gastric tissue) and non-invasive (laboratory tests). Of course, the most accurate and reliable method is the invasive method, because by collecting tissue from the gastric mucosa, a medical specialist carefully examines the biomaterial to detect foci of inflammation and the bacteria themselves. In addition to microscopic examination, the gastric tissue sample may be subjected to various laboratory tests.

All laboratory tests are aimed at identifying Helicobacter pylori and assessing its vital activity. During its life cycle, the microorganism breaks down gastric urea into ammonia, thus creating favorable living conditions for itself. If you place a piece of gastric mucosa infected with Helicobacter Pylori in urea, ammonia will be released. This will increase the alkalinity of the solution, but these changes can only be detected using special test strips. Indicators operate on the principle of litmus paper.

But to identify the disease, it is not at all necessary to conduct an FGDS or a biopsy study - you can use another technique. The 13 urea test helps to detect the presence of infection absolutely painlessly and begin treatment immediately.

Possible complications

With timely initiation of therapy, dangerous consequences can be prevented. In addition, the risk of infecting other people will be completely eliminated.

If we talk about complications, they can manifest themselves through the development of:

• chronic or;
• JAB and DPC;
• stomach oncology;
• endocrine pathologies caused by atrophy of the epithelial lining of the stomach.

To avoid such consequences, self-medication is strictly not recommended. It is better to entrust this issue to a qualified gastroenterologist.

Treatment of Helicobacter pylori

Before starting treatment with Helicobacter Pylori, the degree of damage to the stomach and the contamination of its walls is assessed. The fact is that in some people, over time, these microorganisms become one of the varieties of opportunistic microflora, and therefore may not manifest themselves in any way.

If the bacterium does not harm the health of its carrier, manipulation to remove it is not carried out. But to cure the infection, you will need to use powerful antibacterial drugs. They, in turn, can significantly weaken the immune system and cause development.

On a note. You cannot resort to using folk remedies to treat helicobacteriosis. The use of decoctions and infusions can only temporarily “lull” the symptoms of the disease, forcing the patient to postpone a visit to the doctor. In the meantime, the disease will only progress, which in the future can cause serious complications.

Therapeutic regimens

The treatment regimen for Helicobacter pylori requires an integrated medical approach. Usually the patient is prescribed 2 drugs, which are selected individually. Plus, one drug from the group of proton pump inhibitors is mandatory.

The duration of treatment is determined by the gastroenterologist after a thorough examination of the patient and assessment of the severity of the disease. The duration of the course of therapy is 14-21 days. After its completion, the doctor conducts repeated laboratory tests to confirm the patient’s complete recovery.

Antibiotics

Despite the fact that Helicobacter Pylori belongs to the group of pathogenic bacteria, not all antimicrobial drugs are able to destroy it.

The microorganism quickly develops resistance to antibacterial substances, which significantly complicates the healing process. Sometimes the doctor has to combine several medications at once in order to achieve positive dynamics; moreover, the acidic environment of the stomach can prevent the activation of drug components and slow down the therapy process.

Antibiotic therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection involves the use of the following drugs:

• Clarithromycin
• cephalosporin drugs;
• Azithromycin;
• Levofloxacin.

The drug Amoxicillin and its analogue have the highest effect in treating inflammation of the mucous membranes of the stomach and ulcers formed on it. It is possible to use other antibacterial drugs - and. They contain clavulanic acid, which prevents the production of specific enzymes by microorganisms. This, in turn, prevents H. pylori from developing resistance.

Preparations of bismuth tripotassium dicitrate

Most often, for the treatment of diseases caused by helicobacteriosis, a drug is used, which includes the active substance tripotassium dicitrate. Due to this, there is a significant reduction in the production of biological compounds that promote the growth and reproduction of pathogenic microflora.

De-Nol's action is aimed at:

• disruption of cell membrane permeability;
• change in the membrane structure of cells.

During the chemical interaction of tripotassium dicitrate with protein compounds in the gastric mucosa, the formation of high-molecular complexes occurs. Thanks to this, a strong protective film is formed on the surface of ulcers and erosions, which prevents gastric juice from entering damaged areas of the gastric mucosa.

After completing the full course of therapy with De-Nol, the resistance of the gastrointestinal mucosa to pepsin and hydrochloric acid increases.

Proton pump blockers

To effectively and quickly get rid of Helicobacter Pylori, proton pump blockers are included in the treatment regimen. Due to the components included in their composition, complex biological processes are launched, which lead to a decrease in the production of hydrochloric acid by the stomach.

The most effective proton pump blockers (inhibitors) include the following drugs:

1. ( , ).
2. Rabeprazole (analogues - Khairabezol, Bereta).
3. Pantoprazole (analogues – Controloc, ).

When the acidity of the stomach decreases, the process of repairing damaged tissue begins. It creates unfavorable conditions for the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms, and in particular H. pylori.

In addition, proton pump inhibitors significantly increase the effectiveness of antibiotics used to treat diseases caused by this bacterium. Taking this into account, gastroenterologists often reduce the dose of antimicrobial drugs. This has a beneficial effect on the state of the intestinal microflora and the general immunity of the patient.

Therapeutic diet

To normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract throughout the course of treatment and after its completion, the patient must follow a special therapeutic diet. It implies the following rules:

1. Meals should be fractional, that is, you need to eat little, but often.
2. Exclude fried, fatty, spicy, spicy foods, baked goods and confectionery products.
3. Maintain drinking regime.
4. Avoid alcohol and low-alcohol drinks.
5. Eliminate marinades, pickles, carbonated water, fast foods and other junk foods from your diet.

It will not be easy to follow such a strict diet at first, but the patient must do it to take care of his health. Over time, he will get used to this diet and will not notice food restrictions.

Here is a sample menu for patients with Helicobacter Pylori:

1. Breakfast consists of oatmeal porridge, fresh cottage cheese pancakes and fruit compote.
2. For afternoon tea, you are allowed to eat cottage cheese soufflé and drink a cup of chamomile tea.
3. For lunch, you can eat soup based on chicken broth with lean meat, steamed fish cutlets and stewed or fresh vegetables.
4. For the second afternoon snack - fruit or milk jelly with baked apples.
5. For dinner you can eat steamed turkey and boiled potatoes.
6. For a late dinner, you are allowed to consume kefir or a decoction of rose hips.

Dishes are selected individually, depending on the stage of the disease. The risk of exacerbations, as well as other factors, are also taken into account.

Prevention

To avoid infection, you must follow the simplest rules:

• wash your hands thoroughly before eating and after using the restroom;
• use only your own hygiene products and items (towels, toothbrushes, soap, etc.);
• completely cure gastrointestinal pathologies;
• to refuse from bad habits;
• It is mandatory to undergo routine preventive medical examinations.

To consolidate the results of treatment and strengthen the immune system, the doctor will prescribe vitamin complexes, as well as medications that include microelements necessary for a person. But the patient himself must help his body get stronger after the illness by giving up alcohol and smoking, and reviewing his lifestyle.