Could Your Stomach Pain Be H. pylori? Understanding the Hidden Cause of Chronic Digestive Discomfort

Could Your Stomach Pain Be H. pylori?

If you’ve been dealing with persistent stomach pain, burning, or bloating that doesn’t seem to go away, the cause may be more than simple indigestion. In many cases, H. pylori infection is the hidden culprit. This common bacteria infects the stomach lining and is responsible for a large number of chronic gastritis and ulcer cases worldwide. While many people carry H. pylori without symptoms, others experience significant pain and inflammation that can disrupt daily life. Recognizing when your symptoms may point to H. pylori—and getting the right treatment early—can make all the difference in protecting your digestive health.

What Is H. pylori?

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a spiral-shaped bacteria that lives in the stomach lining. It weakens the stomach’s protective barrier, allowing acid to irritate the underlying tissue. Over time, this can lead to chronic gastritis, painful peptic ulcers, and in rare cases, increase the risk of stomach cancer. The infection spreads easily, often through contaminated food, water, or close contact, making it one of the most common stomach infections globally.

When to Suspect H. pylori

Severe or persistent upper abdominal pain that improves after eating or taking acid medication may be a warning sign. Other common symptoms include:

• Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen

• Bloating or early fullness after meals

• Nausea, excessive burping, or gas

• Unexplained weight loss or poor appetite

• Black or tarry stools, which may signal ulcer bleeding

If you have these symptoms for more than a few days—or if over-the-counter medications stop working—it’s important to see a gastroenterologist for evaluation.

How H. pylori Is Diagnosed

Your gastroenterologist can identify H. pylori using noninvasive or minimally invasive tests such as:

• Urea breath test: A quick, accurate test that detects the bacteria’s activity.

• Stool antigen test: Identifies H. pylori proteins in the stool.

• Endoscopy with biopsy: Recommended for more complex or recurrent cases; allows direct visualization and sampling of the stomach lining.

Accurate diagnosis ensures the right treatment and prevents complications like ulcers or bleeding.

Treatment and Recovery

H. pylori infection is treatable. Most patients are prescribed:

• Two antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria.

• A proton pump inhibitor (PPI) such as omeprazole to reduce stomach acid and allow healing.

• A follow-up test after treatment to confirm that the infection is gone.

In addition to medications, patients are advised to avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), stop smoking, limit caffeine and alcohol, and eat smaller, balanced meals to reduce irritation.

At Husney Medical Gastroenterology in Brooklyn, NY, our board-certified specialists diagnose and treat complex digestive conditions, including H. pylori infection, GERD, gastritis, and peptic ulcers. We offer advanced testing, evidence-based therapies, and compassionate care tailored to each patient’s symptoms and medical history. Early diagnosis and proper management can prevent long-term damage and restore your comfort.