Stomach Pain and H. pylori Symptoms

Having these persistent symptoms could mean you are infected by H. pylori

Signs to Look For

  • Stomach or belly discomfort
  • Stomach or belly pain
  • Bloating
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Regurgitation or spitting up
  • Heartburn or acid reflux
  • Indigestion
  • Gas
  • Burping

Here is a symptom checklist provided by Meridian Bioscience. If you have symptoms like this, it could be due to H. pylori. It is highly important to get tested and treated soon.

Symptoms to Look For

H. pylori Alarming Signs

These signs are more serious. See your doctor immediately or get urgent medical care if you have these signs:
  • You’re over age 60 and have new indigestion that won’t go away
  • You have a family history of gastrointestinal (“GI” or gut) cancer
  • You lose a lot of weight without trying to
  • You throw up blood or have bloody bowel movements. The vomit or stool can be bright red, maroon, or black. Sometimes it may look gritty, similar to wet coffee grounds. If you experience this, seek medical attention immediately.
  • Throwing up or vomiting that won’t stop
  • Trouble swallowing that gets worse over time
  • Iron-deficiency anemia (not having enough iron in your blood), for which your doctor hasn’t found another cause.
  • Lymphadenopathy, or swollen lymph nodes
  • Jaundice, or a yellow color to the skin or eyes

What to Share With Your Healthcare Provider

Be prepared for your appointment and come with details and questions for your provider.

Keep a detailed, written log of your symptoms. You can keep this on paper or on your phone. Be sure to bring it along to your appointment. Having these details can help your provider more easily identify the cause of your symptoms. Your log should include: 

  • A specific description of your symptoms
  • When your symptoms happen
  • How long ago did they start
  • What makes them better or worse
  • What you’re doing when you notice the symptoms
  • Which medications are you’re taking, and the dose
  • Your family medical history

For example, “I have heartburn that happens every time I lie down. It started 3 months ago. I tried taking Tums. They help a little, but they don’t make the burning sensation go away completely”.

Consider some questions to ask your provider, such as:

  • What do you think is causing my symptoms?
  • What tests or treatments do you recommend? If you’re experiencing symptoms like those listed above, ask if being tested for H. pylori is possible.
  • Can you tell me when and how to take my medications?
  • What should I look out for if my symptoms change or worsen? When should I seek immediate medical attention?
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