Helicobacter pylori usually infects a person's stomach during childhood. Infections caused by this strain usually don't cause symptoms, but if left untreated, this condition can lead to related diseases, including peptic ulcers and an inflammatory condition within the stomach known as gastritis. There are also other types of reactions and health conditions that can indicate the presence of Helicobacter pylori in our body. Pay attention to the following.
Contracting Helicobacter pylori is a sign that you have consumed some food contaminated with this bacteria, whether raw or cooked, as it is resilient enough to withstand the cooking process.
The most surprising thing is that more than half of the world's population has this bacteria residing within them, even though it doesn't always manifest directly in the body. Its main advantage as a bacteria is its ability to thrive in the gastric environment despite its extreme acidity, without any issues and for a significant amount of time.
Out of all the microorganisms that inhabit the human body, Helicobacter pylori has the highest incidence or greatest presence. It is found everywhere around the world, in individuals of both sexes and all ages alike. For this reason, we consider it opportune to dedicate an informative article to its main symptoms, some of which are less known but should be taken into account, as early detection could help confront the effects of this bacteria in a less invasive or harmful way for the body. We invite you to read the article: how to eliminate Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
Hidden Symptoms of Helicobacter pylori
There are certain symptoms of Helicobacter pylori that can often be confused with other ailments. However, these may indicate the presence of this strain in the body. It's important to note that symptoms can vary from person to person.
1. Abdominal Inflammation
While not everyone with Helicobacter pylori in their system experiences symptoms, the main reflection of its presence is abdominal inflammation, sometimes unexpectedly. This is one of the most uncomfortable symptoms as the inflammation is often accompanied by intestinal gas and flatulence. It's important to understand that Helicobacter pylori, candida, and other parasites can also cause abdominal bloating. Therefore, it's crucial to identify the cause and determine the appropriate treatment.
Fortunately, there are stool tests that can help you discover what kind of organisms inhabit your digestive system. These tests are very convenient and can save you incalculable amounts of time and money in pinpointing the cause of your symptoms.
They can detect the presence of H. pylori, parasites, and candida.
They can also provide insights into your digestive efficiency and gluten intolerance.
Additionally, they offer information about your immune resilience and other causes.
2. Weakness
Helicobacter pylori can lead to general weakness in the body, even with a proper diet. Most of the time, this symptom is linked to iron-deficiency anemia due to the body's inability to effectively absorb the necessary nutrients for providing energy throughout the day, which can also lead to iron deficiency.
3. Weight Loss
The most noticeable visual indicator of Helicobacter pylori in a person may be unexplained weight loss. If weight loss accelerates without a clear cause, it's important to consult a doctor immediately, as it could be a symptom of the disease. However, there are many causes of weight loss, some of which are equally or more harmful to the patient's health.
Since Helicobacter pylori affects acid levels – which in turn affect the digestion of fats and proteins, weight loss can occur. The issue is that this weight loss is due to the loss of muscle mass, which is a dangerous way to lose weight.
Conversely, difficulty losing weight can also occur, which may seem ironic given the previous symptom. The reason for this is that a hormone called cortisol is produced when the body is stressed. Cortisol is known to cause either weight gain or weight loss, depending on the individual. It can promote weight gain in the stomach area while simultaneously causing the loss of muscle mass.
4. Change in Stool Appearance
Another visual indicator of the presence of Helicobacter pylori is a change in the appearance of stools from the usual healthy form. Stools may become darker over time and appear tar-like with the presence of blood. This is an indicator of digestive problems resulting from the presence of this bacteria. In such cases, it is highly recommended to undergo a stool examination.
5. Easily Satisfied Feeling
When in the presence of the bacteria, people can reach a state of satiety when they eat very quickly, sometimes consuming small amounts of food, which can trigger a state of malnutrition. Leptin is considered a peripheral signal of the energetic state rather than a signal of satiety. Appetite is regulated by both a peripheral signal of the energetic state (such as leptin) and by satiety (intestinal hormones like ghrelin) that alter neuronal activity within the hypothalamus and thus influence feeding and energy intake.
6. Burning Sensation
Burning in the upper abdomen is an indicator of gastrointestinal problems that should be promptly addressed. If this symptom is frequently detected, it's best to consult a doctor immediately to identify possible causes and rule out others.
Inflammation of the stomach after eating can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and a burning sensation in the area. This is another clear indication of the presence of this bacteria in the body. To confirm, it's advisable to undergo a blood test.
Complications Associated with H. pylori
Ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori can damage the protective lining of the stomach and intestine. This allows stomach acid to create an open sore, known as an ulcer. Approximately 10 percent of people with H. pylori will develop an ulcer.
Inflammation of the stomach lining. Infection with this bacteria can irritate the stomach, causing inflammation and gastritis.
Stomach cancer. This is perhaps the most serious complication, as H. pylori infection is a strong risk factor for certain types of stomach cancer.
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