Introduction:
Helicobacter pylori infection is caused by the helicobacter pylori bacteria that affects the stomach. All peptic ulcers are caused by either Helicobacter pylori infection or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the main cause of ulceration than Helicobacter pylori in developed countries. Most people remain undiagnosed with this infection for a long time as they never get sick from it.
What Is Helicobacter Pylori?
Helicobacter pylori grow in the digestive tract and attack the gastric lining. This infection is not harmful, but they result in the formation of ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. The shape of the bacteria is spiral, and often infects children but does not produce any symptoms. However, in some cases, the development of peptic ulcers causes gastritis. To survive the acidic environment of the stomach, H.pylori penetrates the stomach lining, where they are protected by mucous, and the immune cells are not able to reach them.
What Is the Cause of Helicobacter Pylori Infection?
The exact cause is unknown. These bacteria coexist with humans and spread from one person to another through infected feces. For example, when a person does not wash his or her hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and contaminate food or water. Stomach problems occur when the bacteria penetrate the stomach’s mucous lining and generate substances that neutralize the stomach acids. This causes stomach cells to become more vulnerable to harsh acids. Stomach acids and Helicobacter pylori together irritate the stomach and cause ulcers in the stomach or duodenum (first part of the small intestine). However, the mechanism by which Helicobacter pylori bacteria causes peptic ulcers or gastritis, is unknown.
What Are the Symptoms of Helicobacter Pylori Infection?
Most cases are asymptomatic. If the infection leads to an ulcer formation, the patient will have abdominal pain when the stomach is empty. The pain might be relieved by eating something and taking antacids. The other associated symptoms are:
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Excessive burping.
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Abdominal bloating.
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Nausea.
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Burning pain in the stomach.
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Fever.
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Lack of appetite.
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Weight loss.
If these symptoms persist, it might result in other complications like anemia, difficulty swallowing, and blood in the stool. If any blood is noticed in the feces or vomit, which is black, the patient must consult a doctor immediately.
What Are the Risk Factors for Helicobacter Pylori Infection?
Helicobacter pylori infection often affects people in childhood. The risk factors are related to living conditions. They include:
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Living in a Developing Country - People staying in developing countries are prone to develop Helicobacter pylori infection because of the crowded and unhygienic living conditions.
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Living Without a Reliable Supply of Clean Water - Running water from a reliable source of water supply ensures clean water that helps in reducing the risk of Helicobacter pylori infection.
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Living With Someone Affected with Helicobacter Pylori Infection - Staying with a person infected with the bacteria, increase the chances of developing Helicobacter pylori infection.
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Living in Crowded Conditions - Living in a crowded environment or in a home with too many people increases the risk of developing the infection.
How Is Helicobacter Pylori Infection Diagnosed?
Helicobacter pylori infection is diagnosed with the help of the following tests:
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Blood Test - It may reveal evidence of active or previous Helicobacter pylori infection.
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Breath Test - If an infection is present, carbon is released when a solution is broken down in the stomach. The body absorbs the carbon and expels it when the patient exhales.
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Stool Antigen Test - The stool may contain antigens (proteins) associated with Helicobacter pylori infection.
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Stool PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Test - This test can detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori infection in the stool. It can also identify the mutations that can be resistant to antibiotics used in treating the infection.
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Scope Test - A scope test, also known as an upper endoscopy examination is performed to examine the symptoms that may be caused due to Helicobacter pylori.
What Are the Complications of Helicobacter Pylori Infection?
The complications of helicobacter pylori infection include:
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Inflammation of the Lining of the Stomach - Helicobacter pylori infection can affect the stomach lining causing swelling and irritation.
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Ulcers - Helicobacter pylori infection can damage the lining of the stomach and small intestine allowing the stomach acid to create an ulcer (open sore).
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Stomach Cancer - Helicobacter pylori infection can give rise to certain types of stomach cancers.
How Can Helicobacter Pylori Infection Be Treated Through Homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a natural alternative treatment. These medicines stimulate the fighting mechanism of the body. As a result, the healing system of the body becomes strong and heals the disease. Homeopathy works well in the initial stages of Helicobacter pylori infection as it provides symptomatic relief and prevents the progression of the infection. Even in cases where the complications of the infection such as gastritis and gastric ulcer appear, homeopathic drugs show good results in healing the infection. Some of the homeopathic medicines used are:
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Nux Vomica - This homeopathic drug is used to relieve patients from abdominal pain.
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Carbo Veg - This medicine is used when the patient has easy fainting.
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Arsenicum Album - This drug is given when there is burning abdominal pain in the entire body.
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Natrum Phos - This homeopathic drug can be given when there is excess lactic acid causing inflammation in the parts of the throat like a lump in the throat.
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Lycopodium - This drug is given when eating a small portion of food causes fullness in the stomach.
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Graphite - This is helpful in Helicobacter pylori infection causing gastric ulcers.
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Phosphorus - It is useful in treating gastritis problems due to Helicobacter pylori infection.
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Antimonium Crudum - It is given when belching (burping) is constant.
Conclusion:
Helicobacter pylori infection happens when the bacteria infects the stomach. Helicobacter pylori infection is estimated to be present in more than half of the world’s population. It is one of the common causes of peptic ulcers. Helicobacter pylori infection can be managed with homeopathic treatment. Homeopathic medicines stimulate the disease-fighting mechanism of the body to the infection. Although allopathic drugs can also manage the infection, homeopathic treatment is preferred as it includes natural and safe medicines.