Symptoms:

If you are a carrier of H. pylori, you may have no symptoms. If you have an ulcer or gastritis, you may have some of the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain
• Belching and regurgitation
• Bloating and fullness
• Dyspepsia or indigestion
• Feeling very hungry 1 to 3 hours after eating
• Mild nausea (may be relieved by vomiting)

Signs and tests:

Simple blood, breath, and stool tests can determine if you are infected with H. pylori. If you have symptoms, your doctor will determine if you are an appropriate candidate for these screening tests.

The most accurate way to diagnose H. pylori, however, is through upper endoscopy of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Because this procedure is invasive, it is generally reserved for people suspected to have an ulcer, or at high risk for ulcers or other complications from H. pylori, such as having stomach cancer. Risk factors include being over 45 or having symptoms such as:

• Anemia
• Difficulty swallowing
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss

Following treatment, breath and stool tests can determine if you have been cured of the infection.