How is Helicobacter pylori transmitted? Helicobacter pylori is it possible to re-infect.

The bacterium Helicobacter pylori was discovered more than half a century ago in the mucous membrane of the human stomach. It has been established that this microorganism provokes the development of gastritis, ulcers, erosions and polyps, as well as malignant tumors in the intestines and stomach, so it would be useful to find out how the bacterium enters our body and how to get rid of Helicobacter pylori.

Causes of Helicobacter pylori

Infection with a dangerous microorganism occurs through contaminated food and water, as well as as a result of contact with a carrier of the bacterium. To get an infection, sometimes it is enough to eat dirty vegetables, not wash your hands before eating, or use someone else's dishes. In addition, harmful microorganisms are transmitted through saliva or sputum, which is released when coughing, and their important feature is the inability to exist in the air. It is also worth noting that Helicobacter pylori is considered a family disease, since recent studies have shown that if at least one member of the family becomes infected with this microorganism, all other members of it will be infected with a probability of 95%.

Once in the stomach, the bacterium provokes the development of many dangerous diseases. This is due to the fact that Helicobacter pylori is not affected by hydrochloric acid, as a result, the microorganism penetrates deeply into the mucous membrane of the walls of the stomach, thereby violating their protective properties. The bacterium can lead to gastritis, erosion, ulcers, stomach cancer, cholecystitis, hepatitis, endocrine system diseases, skin inflammations, and even coronary heart disease.

Helicobacter pylori symptoms

Often a person may not even suspect that he is infected with a dangerous microbe. Helicobacter pylori begins to activate during a period of weakening of the body, after severe stress, a sore throat, or even a sharp change in diet, while a person begins to be treated for various diseases completely in vain, not understanding what is happening to him. In fact, the main symptoms of Helicobacter pylori are gastritis and ulcers, because this bacterium is the cause of their occurrence.

Be sure to pay attention to the following signs of Helicobacter pylori: frequent constipation or diarrhea, allergies, excessive brittle nails and fungal diseases, bad breath in the absence of dental problems, and hair loss.

In addition, a symptom of the presence of harmful bacteria in the body is recurring pain in the stomach, which usually stops after eating. It can be accompanied by such phenomena as heartburn, nausea, vomiting, poor digestibility of any meat products, severe heaviness in the stomach.

Analysis for the presence of bacteria

Proper diagnosis of the disease is a necessary step towards recovery, because only thanks to it can the most effective treatment be prescribed, therefore, if any of the above symptoms of Helicobacter pylori are detected, it is necessary to quickly test for the presence of harmful bacteria in the body. Modern diagnostic methods make it possible to avoid painful examinations; an effective respiratory urease test, which has a sensitivity of almost 90%, will help to identify the microorganism. However, please note that for greater reliability of the result, before undergoing the procedure, it is necessary to thoroughly clean not only the teeth, but also the tongue and even the throat.

In some cases, an enzyme immunoassay is used to determine Helicobacter pylori, which is aimed at determining the presence of antibodies to bacteria in the blood, but it is worth noting that this test cannot be called too reliable. Much more reliable is the polymerase chain reaction method, which can detect the presence of a microorganism both in the blood and in saliva.

Helicobacter pylori treatment regimen

To combat the bacterium, antacids and substances are used that reduce the amount of gastric juice produced, but these medicines cannot completely eliminate Helicobacter pylori. Doctors are well aware that after stopping the medication, the diseases caused by the microorganism almost always return, so patients have to take special drugs for years.

In fact, the complete destruction of harmful bacteria is a very difficult task, as they have an extremely high resistance to antibiotics. In order to reliably eliminate Helicobacter pylori, it is necessary to combine the intake of several antibacterial drugs and proton pump blockers, as well as bismuth preparations. It is believed that this approach helps patients in about 80% of cases. It is worth noting that if the patient has previously taken any antibiotic, then the bacteria may well become resistant to it, because the use of such a medication will not bring the desired result. Sometimes, after a course of treatment, the patient is prescribed tests to help determine how effective the drugs used were. In this case, a breath test or fecal analysis is performed, which are necessary primarily for those patients in whom the infection has caused complications such as perforation of the gastric mucosa or bleeding.

Treatment with folk remedies

In order to cope with Helicobacter pylori as effectively as possible, it is necessary to apply an integrated approach and combine drug treatment with proper nutrition and effective traditional medicine, which are designed to normalize the acidity of gastric juice and remove pain in the abdomen. All kinds of decoctions and fees affect both the cause of the disease and the process of its course, while the recipes differ depending on what type of acidity is observed in the patient.

So, when the following remedy is often used: flaxseed must be boiled for five minutes, then insisted for about two hours and filtered. The resulting mucus should be given to the patient one tablespoon before each meal. Very effectively reduces the acidity of the herbal infusion, which includes St. John's wort, chamomile, celandine and yarrow. To prepare the remedy, mix an equal amount of ingredients, take 4 tablespoons of the herb and pour boiling water over it. The infusion should be left for several hours, after which it can be given to the patient in small quantities half an hour before meals.

As for low acidity, in this case, an hour before meals, you can use half a glass of freshly squeezed cabbage juice, as well as a decoction of calamus. To prepare it, pour four tablespoons of the rhizome of the plant with a liter of boiling water, then let the remedy stand for about half an hour and take it a quarter cup before meals.

An infusion of pear flowers, apple trees, strawberries and lingonberry leaves will help get rid of pain in the abdomen, an equal amount of which should be poured with boiling water, cooled, strained and drunk between meals.

Diet in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori

Although the main thing in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori is taking medications, in no case should one forget about proper nutrition. So, the patient should not make too large intervals between meals, while food should be consumed only in small portions. It is important to observe 5-6 meals a day, and you need to eat slowly, chewing food thoroughly, not forgetting to drink it with a sufficient amount of liquid.

The patient should not eat too fatty, fried or spicy food, it is better to give up pickled foods, carbonated drinks, and, of course, alcohol. In fact, these are only general recommendations, because in each case, nutrition, based on the level of acidity, should be prescribed by a specialist who conducts treatment.

Helicobacter pylori is a dangerous microorganism that can lead to the development of serious diseases. In order to effectively deal with the problem, at the very first symptoms of the presence of this bacterium in the body, one should undergo a special test and, if necessary, engage in complex treatment, which involves combining the achievements of traditional and classical medicine.

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that lives in the human gastrointestinal tract and provokes the development of dangerous diseases - gastritis, ulcers, helicobacter pylori. According to statistics, 2/3 of the world's population are carriers of this microorganism. It should be noted that Helicobacter pylori is currently the only bacterium that easily survives in the aggressive environment of the stomach.

If left untreated, helicobacteriosis can cause development. The main risk group is people over 60 years of age.

Etiology

Today in official medicine there is no exact etiological picture. Helicobacter pylori infection is most often transmitted orally. In addition, it is necessary to highlight such ways of transmission of Helicobacter pylori infection:

• with close physical contact;
• with poor-quality processing of medical equipment and instruments (endoscope, enema);
• use of common utensils;
• when coughing, sneezing;
• non-observance of elementary rules of personal hygiene.

The reason for the development of the infectious process can also be the consumption of poorly peeled vegetables and fruits. As medical practice shows, the most common cause of the development of helicobacteriosis is precisely non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene.

Pathogenesis

The bacterium enters the human body through the oral or fecal-oral route. Despite the action of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, the bacterium does not die. Helicobacter pylori easily moves through the stomach, can attach to its walls. Penetrating into the mucous membranes, the bacterium begins to destroy tissues, thereby causing certain pathological processes.

This bacterium leads to such diseases:

• stomach cancer;
• ailments of the endocrine system.

Clinicians note that in some cases, helicobacteriosis can be the cause.

General symptoms

At the initial stage, the symptoms of pathological activity of Helicobacter pylori are almost completely absent. As practice shows, the clinical picture can manifest itself only during a period of severe weakening of the immune system, from experienced stress or severe nervous shock.

The symptoms of Helicobacter pylori are:

• pain in the stomach, which may radiate to the chest area;
• nausea and vomiting;
• increased metabolism;
• a feeling of fullness in the stomach, even with little food intake;
• belching, heartburn;
• prolonged constipation or vice versa - loose stools;
• bad breath.

In more rare clinical cases, the patient may develop a rash on the face. At the same time, it should be noted that such symptoms do not always indicate helicobacteriosis.

It is noted that pain in the stomach can disappear after eating and vice versa - intensify after eating fatty meat dishes.

It is not worth self-medicating and resorting to traditional medicine or other dubious means. It is impossible to make an accurate diagnosis based on the clinical picture alone. At the first symptoms, it is better to consult a gastroenterologist.

Possible Complications

If the treatment of Helicobacter pylori is started in a timely manner, then serious complications can be avoided. Moreover, the risk of re-infection and the development of helicobacteriosis is practically eliminated.

As for possible complications, the following ailments may develop:

• chronic or;
• stomach ulcer or;
• stomach cancer;
• endocrine diseases that are caused by the destruction of the epithelium in the stomach.

Therefore, one should not resort to self-treatment of helicobacteriosis with folk remedies. It is better to seek qualified medical help.

Diagnostics

The treatment regimen for Helicobacter pylori is prescribed only after a comprehensive diagnosis. In this case, both laboratory and instrumental research methods are used.

The standard program of laboratory tests for Helicobacter pylori includes the following:

• analysis of fecal mass;
• blood test for helicobacter;
• antibody test.

A blood test for Helicobacter allows not only to establish or refute the diagnosis, but also to detect a possible cause of the development of the disease.

As for instrumental research methods, the following methods are used:

• respiratory test for helicobacteriosis;
• FGDS study;
• analysis of the PRP;

If it is not possible to make an accurate diagnosis based on the above research methods, then differential diagnostic methods are used.

The respiratory test allows you to determine the number of bacteria in the human body. The norm of Helicobacter pylori is 5 units.

Treatment regimens depend on the etiological factor, the obtained tests for Helicobacter pylori and the general condition of the patient.

Treatment

How to treat Helicobacter pylori correctly can only be said by a competent specialist. It is strongly not recommended to use the advice of friends or folk remedies. As a rule, Helicobacter pylori is treated with long-term antibiotics. In addition, the patient must adhere to a diet.

The doctor may prescribe these drugs:

• Metronidazole;
• Tetracycline;
• Furazolidone.

The dosage and dosage regimen is prescribed only by a doctor.

It should be noted that prolonged treatment with antibiotics leads to a violation of the microflora. Therefore, after taking a course of antibiotics, drugs are prescribed to restore microflora and prevent dysbacteriosis.

Diet

Helicobacter pylori treatment involves strict adherence to the diet. Completely excluded for the period of treatment:

• spicy and fried foods;
• marinated dishes;
• carbonated water and sugary drinks;
• alcohol.

Eat small meals, but often. Steamed dishes are preferred. It is best if the patient eats 5-6 times a day, chewing food thoroughly.

In some cases, the doctor may prescribe a diet plan individually.

Folk remedies

It is possible to use traditional medicine for helicobacteriosis, but only as prescribed by a doctor and for preventive purposes. Otherwise, you can only aggravate the course of the disease.

You can use the following folk remedies:

• infusion of lingonberry leaves and pear flowers;
• alcohol tincture of propolis;
• a decoction of calendula and St. John's wort;
• tincture from the root of elecampane.

As medical studies have shown, the treatment of helicobacteriosis with folk remedies does not bring such a positive result as with antibiotic treatment.

Prevention

Since the infection in most cases is transmitted from a sick person to a healthy one, one should strictly adhere to the rules of personal hygiene.

In practice, the following simple rules can be applied:

• avoid smoking and minimize alcohol consumption;
• do not use someone else's dishes, personal hygiene items;
• after visiting public places, the toilet, you need to wash your hands with soap and water.

There is no vaccination against this disease. But, if you follow the rules of prevention, then you can practically exclude the development of a pathological process in a healthy body.

Is everything correct in the article from a medical point of view?

Answer only if you have proven medical knowledge

Diseases with similar symptoms:

It is no secret that microorganisms are involved in various processes in the body of each person, including the digestion of food. Dysbacteriosis is a disease in which the ratio and composition of the microorganisms inhabiting the intestines are disturbed. This can lead to serious disorders of the stomach and intestines.

Bulbitis of the duodenum is an inflammatory process of the mucous membrane of the organ, namely its bulbar section. This is due to the fact that the contents of the stomach enter the bulb of this organ and infection with Helicobacter pylori occurs. The main symptoms of the disease are pain at the site of the projection of the intestine, the intensity of which is different. With untimely treatment of such inflammation, complications may appear that are harmful to human health and are eliminated only with the help of surgical medical intervention.

A pathology such as antral gastritis is spoken of in cases where inflammation of the gastric mucosa is caused by the presence in the human body of such a bacterial agent as Helicobacter pylori. Such a disease of the stomach can be asymptomatic for a long time, but when the process reaches a certain stage, symptoms of an inflammatory lesion of the organ occur, which causes a lot of trouble to a person, forcing him to seek medical help.

Biliary pancreatitis is a disease of the pancreas that is closely associated with cholelithiasis and the formation of stones that interfere with the flow of bile. To date, the number of people with this disease has increased significantly, which is associated with an unhealthy lifestyle and malnutrition - eating too much fatty and fried foods. Therefore, the diet is necessarily included in the treatment of this disease, since it is impossible to get rid of the disease without normalizing the intake of fats and carbohydrates into the body. That is, diet is the key to effective treatment of a pathological condition.

Gastritis with high acidity (syn. hyperacid gastritis) - is expressed in the development of a dystrophic-inflammatory process, with localization in the gastric mucosa, which leads to cell atrophy and improper functioning of this organ. Most often, the occurrence of pathology is caused by the influence of pathogenic bacteria, in particular Helicobacter pylori. However, as provoking factors, it is also worth highlighting poor nutrition and the course of other ailments of the digestive system.

Helicobacter pylori is the microbe that causes gastritis. Scientists-discoverers have been waiting for the Nobel Prize for 20 years, proving the obvious - inflammation of the gastric mucosa is infectious in nature. There are disputes about the discoverer of the microbe. Wikipedia prioritizes Robin Warren and Barry Marshall. In the scientific world, the opinion is spinning: the mentioned scientists found a connection between microbiology and gastroenterology, received the Nobel Prize. The opening mentions the name of Valery Yavorsky.

100 years before the work of Australian scientists, a Polish researcher described microorganisms. Bizzazero confirmed the presence of a sign in sick animals, in the scientific world they did not attach serious importance to the fact. In 1982, Marshall proved the applicability of Koch's postulates to a discovered new species. At the same time, scientists have demonstrated methods of treatment with antibiotics, bismuth salts. The culture was accidentally grown on a nutrient medium.

The microbe is characterized by a spiral shape - a curved rod. The size is microscopic - 3 microns in length with a diameter of half a micrometer. He loves oxygen, but does not need an increased concentration. Creates energy by oxidizing hydrogen. From enzymes it converts urease, catalase, oxidase. If necessary, a coccus form is formed. The outer membrane contains 5 types of proteins. One protein is responsible for adhesion to the epithelium during infection, and the others:

• For the transport of iron.
• The movement of flagella.
• Some proteins perform unknown functions.

The double shell of the bacillus consists of lipopolysaccharides and phospholipids. There is diversity in the family. The genome consists of two million base pairs. DNA differs by 6%. In 2010, scientists analyzed the transcription, which made it possible to clarify the numbers. The study of the genome is required in order to understand the pattern of pathogenesis. In the future, this will allow creating vaccinations (against gastritis, ulcers).

The Helicobacter pylori medical database contains 62 pathogenic genes. The presence greatly increases virulence. The strains contain an island of pathogenicity. A pathogenicity island is a sequence of genes that determine the danger of a bacillus. The length of the site is over 40 genes. The absence of an islet is characteristic for strains isolated from people with asymptomatic carriage.

The microbe becomes the culprit of gastritis: constant anxiety, abdominal cramps, heartburn, nausea. Helicobacter is a bacterium that lives in people with diseases of the duodenum, stomach. It is necessary to talk about gastritis, gastroduodenitis (synonyms). The treatment regimen is no different. The technique was discovered in 1982 by two Australian scientists, who were the first to pay attention and prove the relationship between the presence of a microbe and the development of these diseases. Scientists have grown bacteria.

Scientists knew that the bacterium Helicobacter pylori was present in the stomach, but Koch's postulates could not be applied. The problem was the unsuccessful attempts to breed the bacterium on an artificial medium. There was no possibility of destroying the infection (pick up antibiotics). Such cases in microbiology are not uncommon - the causative agent of salmonellosis was mistaken for swine fever.

Brief historical excursion

The bacterium appeared in Africa 60,000 years ago. Mutation of strains led to the emergence of 7 types characteristic of Europe, the Middle East, India, North Africa, West and South Africa, the Pacific Islands. The microbe came to America with black slaves. Studies show that the diversity of microorganisms decreases with distance from East Africa. Conclusions are drawn about the prescription of the appearance of Helicobacter pylori (58,000 years ago).

The Russian-language domain of Wikipedia tells: as a satellite of the disease, bacteria have been known for a long time - since 1875. A spiral bacterium found in the epithelium of the human stomach. It was not possible to grow it on artificial media. Doctors have not figured out how to kill infectious agents. In 1886, in Krakow, while examining the washings of the stomach, Professor Valery Yavorsky saw a stick. Reminds me of "brushwood with characteristic spiral formations."

The doctor ventured to suggest a relationship between the occurrence of the disease and the bacterium. Evidence has not been provided. In a scientific work in Polish, conjectures were mentioned. Scientists have seen signs of the disease, relentlessly accompanied by bacteria. In 1893, Giulio Bizzozero saw a stick in the stomach of a dog; in 1974, Morozov witnessed the discovery of Helicobacter pylori in adult patients.

The microbe did not have its own name. Earlier, the military registration and enlistment offices said that gastritis was not treated and sent failed cadets to the army as privates. The discovery was made by Robin Warren and Barry Marshall. Scientists worked in their directions. 23 years have passed, and scientists were awarded the Nobel Prize.

Interest in bacteria in the stomach arose in the seventies. The stomach ulcer came to the fore. Deadly diseases have been defeated, humanity has come to grips with well-being. In 1981, Australian scientists began trying to cultivate the bacterium. The trial was a success thanks to chance. The nutrient medium was left for the holidays. When the laboratory assistants returned to see the result, the first shoots appeared. It turned out that Helicobacter grows slowly.

The holidays lasted 5 days, during which time the strain grew. Immediately, Warren and Marshall began research on the sensitivity of the culture to antibiotics for the treatment of ulcers, getting rid of Helicobacter pylori for good. Opinion of doctors: an ulcer occurs solely as a result of emotional experiences, malnutrition. Conclusion: to treat at home, in a hospital, you need the right diet, optimization of the daily regimen. The discovery of Helicobacter pylori changed the view of the scientific world about the problem.

The scientific world has accepted the new concept with unprecedented skepticism. This was also said about dysentery - the genesis of a different type, the new classification was accepted with hostility. A similar situation delayed the creation of the first antibiotics for 50 years. If we take the concept of Helicobacter pylori under consideration, scientists have proposed methods for growing a strain and killing bacteria for excretion from the body.

origin of name

In 1985, Helicobacter pylori was named Campylobacter. As the statistical information grew, it became clear that the classification was unacceptable. In 1989, a DNA analysis was performed, which showed that the bacterium does not belong to this genus. They created a separate genus - Helicobacter. The word pylori comes from the Greek name for the pylorus, the area of ​​the stomach that borders the duodenum.

Helicobacter research

After growing the first strain, the disease began to be investigated. This made it possible to find out the temperature of the death of the infection, the causes of the occurrence in the body. The bacterium dies from ultraviolet radiation, at a temperature of 70 degrees for 10 minutes. The microbe is viable. Survives up to 5 minutes at 95 degrees. It is difficult to kill by pasteurization. Therefore, it is important to boil drinking water - prevention of the spread of infection.

Kokk survives for 1 year outside the body of the host. The microbe is easily killed by iodine and bleach. It is extremely rare in tap water. Sufficient is the action of a solution of chlorine (1.1 mg / l) for 45 minutes.

Scientists quickly discovered that the strain immediately developed resistance to antibiotics. The infection does not respond to Erythromycin, Clarithromycin, Metronidazole. It is more difficult for a microbe to adapt to Tetracycline, fluoroquinolones, Amoxicillin.

Species differentiation methods:

1. Serological.
2. Biotic.
3. Enzymatic.
4. Molecular.

Under adverse conditions, the bacterium forms a film that prevents contact with the environment. Increased microbial survival. The spiral active form easily turns into a spherical coccal one.

Transmission routes

The infection is transmitted in two ways:

1. Oral-oral.
2. Fecal-oral.

The microbe is transferred:

• Cats.
• Dogs.
• Flies.
• Monkeys.

Mammals are sources of danger. The bacterium is localized in food, drinking water.

Invasive action

The wand chose a deliberate tactic. It is characterized by increased resistance to gastric juice, subject to the presence of urea in the contents. The process of effusion of the connection goes through the walls of the vessels. Everyone can expect inflammation. An alkaline shield is formed around the stick, neutralizing the barrier effect of gastric juice. The infection reaches the epithelium - takes root, causes inflammatory reactions.

The cells lining the cavity begin to be destroyed by toxins. The situation is exacerbated by the penetration of digestive enzymes. Raises an additional destructive value. An ulcer often develops into cancer. Helicobacter pylori is considered a carcinogen. Gradually develops gastritis, developing into gastroduodenitis. The death rate is extremely low.

In 40% of cases, gastric ulcers are caused by microbes, and more than half - duodenal ulcers. Survival is ensured by the penetration of the pathogen under a layer of mucus that protects against the action of gastric juice. Helicobacter adheres to epithelial cells. Produces special binding proteins that attach to lipids and carbohydrates.

The failure of doctors in an attempt to cure peptic ulcer becomes understandable. Ways of exposure are to reduce the acidity of gastric juice. This affects the reproduction of bacteria on the mucosa. There was relief followed by a relapse. The reason - the role of bacteria in the occurrence of the disease has not been eliminated.

Doctors noticed the effectiveness of bismuth preparations. Get rid of gastritis, fell out of use for a trivial reason: doctors did not understand the mechanism of action. Class . Features that help bacteria get used to the epithelium:

1. Resistance to the acidic environment of the stomach is provided by enzymes that process urea.
2. Due to the presence of flagella, the bacterium is mobile. Helps to deepen into the layer of mucus.
3. Due to special proteins, the rod is attached to the walls of the epithelium, destroys cells, which makes phagocytosis difficult.
4. The bacterium has a specific irritating effect on the local immune system, suppresses protective reactions.
5. The produced lipase digests the membranes of epithelial cells, contributes to the development of the disease. The enzyme disrupts the protective functions of mucus.

Infection with the bacterium is accompanied by an increase in gastrin secretion with an increase in the production of gastric juice. Which causes an additional irritating effect. An associated nature of the course of the disease is possible.

irritable bowel syndrome

Scientists are raising the topic of the connection between infection and irritable bowel syndrome. If the microbe lives in the stomach, why is there no risk of being found in the intestines? The structure of the epithelium differs in functionality, but the cells are the same.

Analyzes show that irritable bowel is detected in carriers of Helicobacter pylori. Connections are possible between phenomena.

Note! Scientists consider the fact of the bacterial genesis of the ulcer unproven. Motivating by the fact that the discoverers of the microbe managed to cause only gastritis. But who wants to voluntarily acquire an ulcer in the name of science?

The hypothesis is explained by the facts:

1. Decreased motility of the gastrointestinal tract due to the formation of cytotoxins by the bacterium.
2. Antagonism of rods with obligate intestinal flora.
3. Violation of the secretion of certain hormones.

The data frankly contradict each other. The disease is not dangerous, therefore it did not attract due attention of physicians.

Symptoms and signs

Gastrointestinal disease is accompanied by signs of dyspepsia:

• bitterness in the mouth;
• intestinal colic;
• my stomach hurts;
• belching.

A typical set of symptoms for gastritis. The main signs are revealed at endoscopy. The appearance of the mucosa is clearly changed. Atrophy is characterized by a decrease in the number of parietal and chief epithelial cells. Tissue replacement occurs, which disrupts functionality. The regeneration of the epithelium is reduced. Morphological changes are localized in the antrum of the stomach.

Cell nuclei are displaced to the surface, the boundaries become fuzzy, the epithelium is flattened. If left untreated, the changes are manifested by suppuration with severe edema. Gradually, the process captures the body of the stomach. Atrophy prevails over inflammation. The clinical picture is varied. There are 3 global groups of signs: pain, asthenovegetative, dyspeptic.

With intestinal infections, a lack of iron and vitamin B12 develops. This is accompanied by anemia, pallor of the skin. Differential diagnosis is carried out with a number of diseases, the final decision is made upon detection of the presence of Helicobacter pylori, the presence of a characteristic picture (gastritis, gastroduodenitis, ulcer).

pain

Pain is characteristic in the umbilical and epigastric regions of the abdomen. The picture is similar to duodenal ulcer. Colic is much more pronounced. The pain is characterized by the following epithets: aching, sharp, cramping or erased. Symptoms appear a couple of hours after eating. Sometimes at night.

Asthenovegetative syndrome

The name speaks for itself. Sign - loss of strength: fatigue. The process occurs against the background of sleep disturbance, headaches.

Dyspepsia

The types of symptoms are known: nausea up to vomiting, heartburn, pain (irradiation is possible), constipation (or diarrhea), decreased appetite.

Diagnostics

The main criterion is the presence of Helicobacter in the test results. Other bacteria do not live in the stomach. Observing a stick in the washing water, doctors make a diagnosis. In 85% of patients with a strong characteristic rash on the face, this bacterium is found. Many on the planet have an infection: people are defenseless, they did not know about the ways of transmitting the microbe. This happens when kissing (the typical route of transmission is oral-oral).

Diagnosis in developing countries is not required: the microbe lives in adults. This is due to the lack of hygiene, the intake of indigestible food (alcohol violates the integrity of the mucous membrane of the epithelium). In Russia, the number of carriers exceeds two-thirds of the population. More than 50% suffer from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Diagnosis is carried out on several grounds. The first is the presence of a blood culture in the blood. Used to detect gases produced by bacteria (bad breath). Urease appears in the contents of the stomach. In microbiology, a positive result for Helicobacter is exhibited by staining the sticks according to Gram, Giems, Warfin-Sturry, acridine, hematoxylin-eosin. Biopsy methods are used.

Types of analyzes

1. Blood test for presence. Disadvantage: the symptom persists for several years after treatment.
2. Urea breath test.
3. Stool test for antigens.
4. Biopsy of the epithelium of the stomach.

Treatment

Barry Marshall, who had infected himself, was taking Metronidazole in combination with bismuth drugs. The sensitivity of the culture to drugs was preliminarily tested. If Helicobacter pylori is detected, it is treated with antibiotics in combination with proton pump inhibitors. Triple therapy is called eradication in medicine - a complex complex treatment. Doctors are looking for a middle ground between effectiveness and non-toxicity. The course lasts up to 14 days. New schemes (quadrotherapy) are constantly appearing. The purpose of the search for new approaches is reduced to the following directions:

• Reducing the duration of the course.
• Eliminate the need for a diet.
• Reducing the amount of drugs used in treatment.
• Reducing the number of appointments.
• Elimination of side effects.
• Overcoming the resistance of Helicobacter pylori.
• Avoiding allergic reactions by developing treatment regimens.

The procedure involves taking at least two antibiotics. The appointment is determined by the doctor based on the results of bacteriological analysis (Clarithromycin, Amoxicillin). After treatment with antibiotics, the intestinal microflora and urinary tract suffer. Doctors note that over the next six years, re-infection of 50 percent of those cured. This shows the danger of the microbe. The consequences are not severe, but it is impossible to get rid of the presence in the body.

A single approved scheme has not been identified by doctors. If there was a “better”, the others would disappear. Practice shows that doctors need to search for new methods. Specialized conferences (in Maastricht) led scientists to the conclusion that the derived methods do not differ in the expected results.

Triple Therapy

The microbe lends itself to the simultaneous action of several drugs. Given this fact, the doctors suggested the following components:

1. proton pump inhibitor.
2. Two antibiotics:

• Clarithromycin.
• Metronidazole or amoxycycline.

This is a used variant of the first line of defense. In quadruple therapy, a bismuth preparation is added to these components. Clarithromycin is being replaced by tetracycline. The use of a 4-component regimen on the second line is recommended in areas with increased infection resistance. Other options are similar, showing similarities with those indicated above. These are combinations of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors.

To treat or not to treat

The consequences of the lack of treatment of the pyloric canal were found out by the doctors. The situation develops to an ulcer under adverse conditions. The relationship has not been proven, but the facts look convincing.

More than 50% of people on the planet live with a microbe. For the most part, Helicobacter interferes with enrolling in military schools. With rare exacerbations of gastritis, it is allowed to recruit students from military departments. If the pregnancy occurs in the family of employees, it will be right to get rid of the infection.

Not all infection develops into inflammation of the epithelium. In 15% (one in six) the bacterium causes serious damage, up to a stomach ulcer. Helicobacter lives for years in a latent form.

Deciding to be cured, get to know De-nol better. Be careful with homeopathy. Medicines with a high degree of dilution in Russia are recognized as ineffective. 150 years after their introduction to the Russian market.

In the absence of antibiotics, there was little difference in the outcome of the patients when treatment was prescribed. The fading of the concept falls on the 60s, when penicillin was studied, which made a revolution in the fight against infectious diseases.

Heliobacter pylori is a dangerous bacterium. It undermines the human body from the inside and leads to pathologies such as chronic gastritis, ulcers, erosion, or even stomach cancer. If she settled in the body, complex treatment is required.

But any problem is easier to prevent than to treat, so it is important to know how you can become infected with Heliobacter. This will help to take the necessary measures for prevention and prevent negative consequences in the future. The main principle of prevention is personal hygiene. But it is also important to strengthen the overall immunity, which will increase the body's resistance against harmful microbes.

1. Helicobacter pylori infection and its symptoms

In appearance, the bacterium resembles a spiral surrounded by hairs. With their help, she quickly moves along the walls of the organs and chooses the pylorus of the stomach as her abode - the pyloric lower tier, smoothly passing into the duodenum.

If a person has a strong immune system, then when a bacterium appears, the body can cope with it. However, it can cause harm, which in the future will turn out to be global. At the site of the microbe's stay, the amount of protective mucus is significantly reduced, hydrochloric acid is actively moving towards it, and in the future inflammation of the mucosa appears.

Symptoms of the presence of bacteria in the body are as follows:

• bleeding gums, furred tongue;
• constant .

These symptoms are characteristic of a disease called. They may indicate the appearance of ulcers and chronic gastritis.

2. Risk factors

Among the risk factors are the following:

• male sex and average age;
• inadequate social and living conditions;
• ignoring the rules of personal hygiene;
• the presence of a microorganism in parents;
• work with carriers of bacteria (medical staff);
• promiscuous sexual relations;
• bathing in open springs and drinking water from them;

It is worth noting that a strong immune system is not always able to protect against bacteria. It reproduces well in the intestines even with normal natural defenses, as it can hide from immune mechanisms.

3. Routes of transmission

The bacterium is transmitted from person to person and from animal to person. Studies have identified it in some species of monkeys and in cats. There are three ways of infection that have been proven, and one more that has not yet been scientifically confirmed.

fecal-oral

It is excreted from the body with feces and passes into the coccal form. In the latter, it can exist in the external environment for a long time. The microbe can enter the body of another person through the objects on which it ended up and in contact with the patient's dirty hands. You can become infected by not washing your hands before eating or by licking certain objects. This mechanism is typical for children who like to taste everything.

It is possible to get infected by the fecal-oral route from sick animals. Most often this applies to cats. Also, infection is common in Africa, where there are many monkeys, and the population has an extremely low level of hygiene education.

A variant of this route of transmission is infection of infants. The lactating mother does not properly handle the nipples, and the bacterium can be transferred to them from the hands. The child swallows it with milk, then it inseminates the intestinal mucosa and develops rapidly.

oral-oral

This mode of transmission is mainly found in adults, family members or couples. You can get infected through kissing. In some quantity, the bacterium lives on the oral mucosa and plaque. Risks of infection increase if good hygiene is not followed. When kissing, the bacterium can be transmitted to children from parents, but such cases are very rare.

Through the water

When the bacterium was first discovered, it was believed that it did not live in water. However, over time, studies have found that it is present in large quantities in water reservoirs and can be transmitted through water. Interestingly, chlorination, which prevents many infections, does not prevent the transmission of this microbe. It was found that in water with the addition of chlorine, pylori turned into a coccal form and stopped growing, but did not die and retained its infectious properties.

Transplacental route

A blood test of infants born to infected mothers reveals antibodies to the microorganism. Symptoms of pathology in the child do not occur. Observation of newborns with fecal analysis shows the absence of bacteria in the intestines. Shortly after birth, the antibody titer decreases. All this is a reason to believe that antibodies are transmitted to the baby with the mother's blood. The bacteria themselves with blood do not penetrate and do not pass through the transplacental barrier, and infection does not occur.

Video on the topic: How to get rid of Helicobacter pylori and excess weight

4. What precautions should be taken to avoid family transmission?

If one of the family members has become infected with the bacterium, then it is important to prevent its appearance in other relatives. First of all, it is important to pass the analysis. Precautions focus on personal hygiene. Each family member should have their own dishes, towels and other household items.. Bedding, doorknobs and other items must be permanently processed. It is important to take care of proper nutrition, giving up bad habits and strengthening the immune system.

How to detect disease

The bacterium can stay in the body without causing any inconvenience to the carrier. In this case, only research will help to identify it - blood and feces tests. It is also worth paying attention to the characteristic symptoms of its presence, which are listed above.

Is it possible to get re-infected?

It is possible to become infected again, since a person does not have immunity against this microorganism. Often re-infection occurs in the first 10-12 months after completion of therapy. The reason for this may be just one surviving bacterium.

Secondary pathology is very dangerous, as it can provoke relapses of ulcers, gastritis and erosion of the stomach.

Is co-treatment necessary when one of the family members is positive for Helicobacter pylori?

First you need all family members to be tested for. Moreover, it is also recommended to do this to friends, other relatives and neighbors, since you can catch the bacterium even through the doorknob. If the analysis confirmed the presence of a microbe, then therapy is necessary.

What causes Helicobacter pylori in dogs? How do we know if our pet is contagious?

In humans and animals, the bacterium spreads in the same way - through contaminated food and water. Naturally, it is more difficult to protect a pet. The main sign of the bacterium in dogs and cats is vomiting.

Healthy carriage is also common, when the microorganism is present but does not cause any inconvenience. In any case, only an examination by a veterinarian can reveal it. Pets can be carriers of many pathologies that are dangerous to humans, so the owners must carefully monitor their health and observe hygiene standards that are necessary for the health of all family members.

5. Prevention

Prevention of helicobacteriosis is reduced to the following measures:

• The main thing is the observance of the rules of personal and household hygiene. It is important to wash dishes and hands with high quality before eating, do not touch dirty items, use personal household items. You need to watch the children so that they do not take any foreign objects into their mouths. Water must be used exclusively boiled.
• The body must receive a sufficient amount of vitamin C and beta-carotene. Their regular use helps reduce the likelihood of infection.
• To reduce the risk of infection, it is recommended to abandon promiscuity. Couples need to regularly undergo appropriate examinations.

Secondary prevention also includes the listed measures. It is also important that all family members are treated with antibiotics and regularly tested for bacteria in feces and exhaled air.

Prevention also includes strengthening the immune system. Proper nutrition and the rejection of bad habits are important.

6. Conclusion

It can be transmitted in a variety of ways and it is best to take care of prevention. It includes maintaining hygiene and maintaining a proper lifestyle, as well as passing tests. If one of the family members has become infected, then the rest need extreme caution.

He is engaged in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the stomach, esophagus and duodenum, diseases of the pancreas and liver of alcoholic etiology. Treats intestinal dysbacteriosis and constipation.

The human body is inhabited by many bacteria invisible to the eye. Some of which peacefully cohabit with a person, without harming him and even benefiting him, while others are pathogenic and cause diseases.

The microbe Helicobacter pylori (helicobacter pylori) in the stomach - what is it

This is the generic name of bacteria that can cause diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: gastritis with high acidity, allergization of the body.

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium up to 1 µm thick and up to 3.5 µm long, which enters the stomach of a person with food contaminated with them, with saliva, insufficiently processed endoscopic instruments.

From the most favorite habitat of the microorganism - the pyloric part of the stomach - the species is called "pylori".

The bacterium has a very specific structure: it has a spiral shape, a smooth shell, from 2 to 6 flagella at one end of the body. These organs of movement allow the microorganism to quickly reach its destination - the stomach, move in the thickness of its wall, choosing the most favorable places for colonization and reproduction. Like a corkscrew, the flagella bore through the thickness of the epithelium.

About 8 types of Helicobacteria are distinguished, differing in microscopic features, as well as in enzymatic composition.

Enzymes H.rulori help to survive in the acidic contents of the stomach: urease, hemolysin, protease, mucinase, phospholipase, specific proteins that can inhibit the release of hydrochloric acid.

Enzymes and proteins help to adjust the conditions of the stomach “for themselves”, they work in such a way that the microbe feels most favorable: they thin the mucus, create a pH in the region of 4-6.

If suddenly the conditions for "uninvited guests" in the gastrointestinal tract or on the surface of food, non-disinfected instruments become unfavorable, they take on a rounded coccal shape, fall into a state of rest, and lose their ability to reproduce. But the states of "hibernation" easily pass into active, after the elimination of the factors limiting their development.

Who discovered Helicobacter pylori

Scientists around the world have done a great job before establishing the relationship between this microbe and its ability to cause gastric pathology.

Back in the 19th century, the Polish scientist V. Yavorsky, examining the washings of the stomach, discovered a spiral, brushwood-like stick. He was the first to suggest that it is capable of causing diseases, and published a work on this topic. But the discovery of Helicobacter pylori by scientists was not appreciated, the publication was not widely distributed and recognized, perhaps because it was in Polish.

In the 80s of the 20th century, the Moscow scientist I. Morozov discovered an S-shaped microorganism in patients with peptic ulcer. But again, failure: he had difficulty growing them on nutrient media in the laboratory. And again the microbe was forgotten for several years.

R. Warren and B. Marshal

1979 can be called the year when the microbe could no longer "escape" from the minds of inquisitive scientists. Two professors from Austria, R. Warren and B. Marshal, studied N. pylori, were able to cultivate it on nutrient media, and also stated that many ulcers and gastritis are not caused by stress and eating habits, but by its effect on the mucous membrane.

Their work among physicians was criticized, it was believed that not a single bacterium was able to survive due to the effects of acidic gastric juice. Then Marshal went to extreme measures: he deliberately infected himself by drinking a culture of pathogenic bacteria from a cup in which they were grown.

The consequences were not long in coming: the scientist earned himself gastritis. Moreover, he confirmed it endoscopically, as well as the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the stomach.

Scientists did not stop at their achievements and developed this pathology, proving that antibiotics in combination with bismuth salts, metronidazole effectively cope with this problem.

In 2005, R. Warren and B. Marshall received the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their discovery.

Helicobacteriosis - what is it

This is the complex name for a chronic infection in the human body, which is caused by long-term persistence of H. pylori.

This pathology is extremely common among the population. According to statistics, 50% of the population over 60 years of age suffer from helicobacteriosis, and 80% of the world's population are infected.

Especially high percentage of infection in developing countries, and the age of infection in such places is much lower than average.

Causes of Helicobacter pylori in the stomach

Knowledge of where Helicobacter pylori comes from, the causes of the bacterium, is necessary for everyone. They will help prevent microbial contamination and avoid infection. Forewarned is forearmed.

The source of infection is a person. He may have clinical symptoms of the disease, or he may be a carrier of a pathogenic microorganism and not even be aware of it. In many cases, the infection is asymptomatic and is not accompanied by changes in well-being.

The microbe is very tenacious and extremely contagious. If one family member is diagnosed with this infection, then with a 95% probability all persons living with him will also be infected.

The bacterium is easily transmitted with saliva when kissing, sneezing, sharing cutlery, towels, non-compliance with personal hygiene rules, when eating foods contaminated with H. pylori (if there is a habit of eating from the plate of an infected family member, or eating up food after him).

It is possible to become infected with a pathogen again, in the same ways, even after a successfully completed course of eradication and negative tests for the presence of this microbe. The cure does not occur for life, the body does not develop immunity to the toxins of this microorganism and to itself.

Methods and ways of infection with Helicobacter pylori:

• kissing with a sick person/carrier
• eating food contaminated with bacteria
• insufficient observance of personal hygiene rules in the family circle (one toothbrush for two, shared towels), where there is an infected person, or in a close team of people (shared lipstick, borrowing a neighbor's handkerchief)
• sharing cutlery and reusable tableware with an infected person
• insufficient disinfection of spatulas, endoscopic and dental instruments in medical institutions
• particles of saliva of an infected person get on the mucous membranes of a healthy person when sneezing, coughing. This method of infection is still in the process of being studied.

The bacterium, having entered the body in one of the above ways, reaches the stomach and can be in a latent, dormant state (in this case, the person is called a carrier), or cause diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, allergic reactions, weaken the immune system.

How not to get Helicobacter pylori

Knowing the ways of transmission of the pathogen, it is easy to predict preventive measures:

• Observe the rules of personal hygiene. Use separate cutlery, toothbrush, towel. Monitor the sanitary and hygienic condition of the restroom, bathroom, tableware. Do not allow the use of your handkerchief and lipstick, do not take personal hygiene items from strangers. Wash hands thoroughly with soap.
• Do not use reusable utensils.
• Avoid crowded places, close contact with unfamiliar people.
• Wash vegetables, fruits thoroughly, do not have the habit of eating from someone else's plate, or eating one dish for two.
• Do not abuse alcohol, stop smoking. Tobacco and alcohol damage the gastric mucosa, weaken the protective properties of mucus, which allows microbes to quickly and freely settle in the gastrointestinal tract.

To date, the world is developing a vaccine against this microbe. Perhaps in the near future, infection with Helicobacter pylori will be prevented by vaccination, as well as reduce the number of gastritis, ulcers and other gastrointestinal pathologies associated with this pathogen.

How Helicobacter pylori affects the body

Changes in the human body after a pathogen enters it first occur at a microscopic level.

Thanks to flagella and enzymes, the microbe is fixed on the gastric mucosa and penetrates into the intercellular space. Initially, N. pylori inhabits the pyloric region, then goes on the offensive, multiplies and captures larger territories: the body of the stomach, the fundus, and then the entire organ.

The urease enzyme produced by the "invaders" is able to break down urea in the gastric lumen and convert it into ammonia, which neutralizes HCL. Gastric mucus, which is a protective barrier, loses its properties and liquefies under the influence of the Helicobacter pylori enzyme - mucinase.

S-shaped microbes are also capable of producing inflammatory mediators that make the human immune system work in an enhanced mode, produce antibodies and specific cells, causing systemic immune damage.

The consequence of such changes at the cellular level is the development of the disease. The most common manifestations of the pathology caused by H. pylori are chronic gastritis with high acidity and stomach ulcers.

Gastric symptoms that make it possible to suspect the development of gastritis due to the activity of this pathogen are as follows:

• heartburn
• belching air or sour
• constipation or a tendency to diarrhea
• pain after eating in the epigastrium
• elevated
• metallic taste in the mouth

If one or more of the above symptoms appear, the general state of health worsens, gastrointestinal discomfort occurs, you should contact a gastroenterologist. The doctor will prescribe FGDS, take a biopsy of the mucous membrane for cytological, microbiological.

If you brush aside the alarming symptoms, take them not seriously enough, wait "until it passes by itself", Helicobacter pylori will feel like a full-fledged hostess, and can even provoke an ulcer. In this case, getting rid of it will be much more difficult than in the initial stages of the disease.

Helicobacter and hair loss

Could a microbe in the stomach be responsible for hair loss? Yes. Often, patients have been looking for the cause of baldness for years, rubbing expensive masks and shampoos into the scalp to no avail, but at the same time they forget to examine the stomach.

Hair loss during H. pylori infection is explained by the following mechanisms:

• the microbe damages the inner gastric wall. There is a violation of the absorption of nutrients, vitamins, trace elements and minerals that are necessary for the growth of hair, nails
• toxins and harmful substances produced enter the capillaries of the bloodstream, spread throughout the body, negatively affect the blood filling of the hair follicles, weakening them and increasing fragility
• the bacterium causes a weakening of the immune system, dysfunction of the cellular and humoral link

A consequence of prolonged hypo- and avitaminosis, impaired immunity can be nested alopecia - focal hair loss.

At the first signs and symptoms of baldness, it is imperative to check the gastrointestinal tract even in the absence of other clinical symptoms. It should be remembered that helicobacteriosis can be asymptomatic or manifest itself as clinical signs not associated with the stomach.

Can helicobacter cause allergies

Allergic reactions are not uncommon in this pathology. Chronic urticaria, atopic dermatitis, food allergies are diseases that can be caused by pathogenic microbes.

There is a relationship: the higher the pathogenicity of a microorganism, the more it releases toxins and destructive enzymes, the more allergic manifestations.

Rashes on the skin in the form of transient blisters with hives, redness, crusting and other formations occur for the following reasons:

• increases the permeability of the capillaries of the gastrointestinal tract due to inflammation of the inner lining due to microbial toxins
• increased release of histamine and gastrin, substances that contribute to the expansion of capillaries and the rapid absorption of bacterial decay products
• excessive activity of the immune system, increased release of inflammatory mediators

Allergic manifestations are especially great in persons with a hereditary predisposition to hypersensitivity, suffering from bronchial asthma, eczema, dermatitis.

Symptoms on the face with Helicobacter pylori

Looking at the patient's face, even the most experienced doctor will not be able to say with 100% certainty that helicobacteriosis is present. This requires diagnostic tests. But it can suggest the presence of bacteria in the stomach by indirect signs.

Clear facial skin is a sign of good functioning of the digestive organs. The skin receives a sufficient amount of nutrients, vitamins, the blood supply to the capillaries is good, the dermis is nourished, the sebaceous and sweat glands work.

As soon as the digestive function suffers, which happens under the influence of a microbe, the face, like a mirror, reflects these changes.

If you have:

• there were small dot itchy rashes in the forehead, face, scalp and neck
• there are purulent vesicles or papules on the wings of the nose
• there is persistent redness of the skin of the face, neck of the upper body
• there are keratinized focal areas on the upper half of the body

Be sure to visit not only a dermatologist, but also a gastroenterologist! Perhaps skin manifestations are a nonspecific sign of Helicobacter pylori thriving in the stomach.

Helicobacter pylori and acne on the face

The most striking skin manifestations with this infection are acne. They disturb patients, causing them aesthetic and psychological dissatisfaction.

Pathogen toxins, increased permeability and fragility of capillaries, excessive release of histamine, hyperreactivity of the immune system - these are the main pathogenetic links leading to the appearance of rashes.

Acne rosacea or rosacea is the most common indirect sign of H. pylori on the face. Initially, diffuse reddening of the skin is observed, then single or confluent elements are formed - papules, pink-red in the nose, forehead, cheeks. Inflammatory elements suppurate, merge.

In addition to rosacea, infected patients have a high percentage of acne, pustular papules and pustules.

There are no proven scientific works and clinical studies that reliably confirm that Helicobacter is the main cause of acne on the face. But this pathogen, no doubt, aggravates skin symptoms and is a predisposing factor to its formation.

Helicobacter and eczema

The presence of a pathogenic microbe in the body can aggravate the course of such a skin disease as eczema, provoke exacerbations of its chronic course.

Dermatologists believe that Helicobacter, in combination with a fungal, bacterial infection, an allergic mood of the body, a hereditary predisposition, serves as a factor accelerating the onset of the disease.

Eczema can occur acutely in the form of reddening of the skin of the hands, feet, face, body, the formation of skin rashes, weeping. It can develop subacutely in the form of itchy, scaly spots, plaques of various sizes.

The eczematous process is often chronic, dragging on for many years. Plaques and rashes on the skin may fade in the remission phase, or may worsen with renewed vigor.

If eczema worries the patient for many years, there are difficulties in identifying the causative factor of the disease, there is a certain resistance to therapy, doctors definitely recommend contacting a gastroenterologist in order to diagnose Helicobacter pylori infection. If a microbe is found, it should be eradicated. Often, after getting rid of N.rulori, a person suffering from eczema forgets about skin problems.