Stomach bacteria and their effect on the health of the digestive system

Stomach bacteria, scientifically known as “Helicobacter pylori” or (H. pylori), are spiral-shaped bacteria that live and reproduce in the stomach lining, causing many chronic diseases in the digestive system, although millions of people around the world carry these bacteria without Any symptoms appear, they pose a real danger to human health, especially if they are not treated properly, which leads to the exacerbation of many health problems.

Stomach bacteria are considered one of the most common diseases in the world, affecting millions of people annually. The infectious bacteria are a major cause of stomach and intestinal infections and duodenal ulcers, and sometimes they can cause stomach cancer.

In this article, we will take a deep look at stomach bacteria, ways to treat them, and ways to prevent them.

Stomach bacteria can be transmitted from one person to another in several ways, including:

_ Direct contact with the saliva or vomit of an infected person: such as kissing or sharing food and drink utensils.

_ Eating contaminated food or water: especially if it was not cooked or washed well.

_ Living in a crowded or unhealthy environment: The chances of exposure to infection increase through contact with contaminated surfaces.

Many people with stomach bacteria have no symptoms, while others experience mild symptoms that include:

- Indigestion: such as feeling full or satiated after eating a little food, or feeling bloated after eating.

- Stomach pain: Feeling severe pain, especially in the upper abdomen, especially after eating or when the stomach is empty at night.

- Nausea and vomiting: feeling nauseous and vomiting repeatedly to expel the food in the stomach, accompanied by a feeling of fatigue, exhaustion, and severe pain in the upper abdomen.

- Heartburn: An increase in acid secretion in the stomach, which leads to the feeling of heartburn and constant acidity, which is a burning feeling in the chest or throat.

- Burping: Frequently.

- Loss of appetite and weight: loss of appetite, and noticing significant unexplained weight loss in the patient.

- Change in mouth odor: Noticing bad breath in the patient.

- Stool color change: Notice a change in stool color to black.

- Esophageal reflux: exposure to esophageal reflux, which is accompanied by acidity that does not respond to treatment.

- Low red blood cell count: which causes susceptibility to anemia.

Appropriate treatment must be obtained immediately, as if stomach bacteria are not treated, it may lead to serious complications, including:

_ Stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers: These are open ulcers in the lining of the stomach or small intestine, and the probability of developing them increases by 60% among adults.

_ Stomach cancer: Stomach bacteria are one of the causes of stomach cancer.

_ Gastritis: It is an inflammation of the stomach lining.

_ Difficulty absorbing some nutrients: such as iron and vitamin B12.

Treatment for stomach bacteria relies heavily on antibiotics, and a combination of two or three types of antibiotics is often given with other medications to protect the stomach lining.

- Antibiotic treatment: Treatment includes antibiotics such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin, in addition to a proton pump inhibitor such as omeprazole.

- Triple antibiotic therapy: This type of treatment consists of taking three types of antibiotics together for about two weeks.

- Treatment with proton pump inhibitors: These medications help reduce acid secretion in the stomach and relieve symptoms.

It is important to complete treatment as instructed by your doctor, even if symptoms disappear, to prevent the recurrence of the infection.

Some steps can be taken to prevent stomach bacteria, including:

- Wash hands well with soap and water: Hands must be washed well with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom.

- Cook food well: Avoid eating raw or undercooked foods, as well as spoiled foods and drinks that may be contaminated with bacteria.

- Wash fruits and vegetables well: especially if they are eaten raw.

- Drink clean water: Avoid drinking water that has been contaminated or that someone else has drunk from.

- Avoid sharing food and drink utensils: also towels or toothbrushes.

- Keeping the toilet clean: cleaning it regularly.

- Avoid smoking: Smoking increases the risk of stomach infections and can lead to an increase in the severity of symptoms

- Educating family members about ways to prevent stomach bacteria: and encouraging them to follow the same steps.

This article is for awareness only, and should not be considered a substitute for consulting a doctor. Medical advice must be obtained if any symptoms indicating stomach bacteria appear to obtain the appropriate diagnosis and treatment for the condition.

Stomach bacteria are considered a common health problem and a hidden enemy that threatens the health of the digestive system, but they can be prevented and treated effectively through early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. It is also important to pay attention to preventing the disease by ensuring personal hygiene, eating healthily, and undergoing periodic medical examinations. And staying away from dangerous factors such as smoking, by following the necessary preventive measures we can establish a protective shield that protects us from the dangers of these bacteria and maintain the health of our digestive system.