Infection may be silent
H. pylori may be silent. Pain, nausea or early fullness cannot diagnose the infection by themselves.
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Many people with H. pylori have no symptoms. In others, infection is associated with inflammation of the stomach lining or an ulcer. Possible symptoms include upper abdominal discomfort, nausea and early fullness. These symptoms also occur with other conditions, so they cannot confirm infection by themselves.
Why a confirmed infection matters
Treating confirmed infection helps reduce ulcer and other complication risks. A positive test does not mean cancer.
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H. pylori is a major cause of stomach and duodenal ulcers. Long-lasting infection can also increase the risk of certain stomach cancers, although a positive test does not mean cancer is present. Treating a confirmed infection can reduce the chance of important complications.
Tests that look for the infection
Breath or stool testing can detect active infection. Tell the team about antibiotics and acid-suppressing medicines before testing.
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A urea breath test or stool antigen test can look for active infection. During an endoscopy, a small stomach sample may also be tested when indicated. Tell the testing team about recent antibiotics and acid-suppressing medicines because these can affect results and preparation instructions.