Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori, is a digestive system bacteria that can lead to acute infection without presenting symptoms. 10 to 20 percent of people who become infected will develop peptic ulcers — an ulcer of the stomach or ulcer in the upper part of the small intestines — of which 3% carry a risk of progressing to cancer. 

 

What is H. Pylori?

Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori, is a digestive system bacteria that can lead to acute infection without presenting symptoms. 10 to 20 percent of people who become infected will develop peptic ulcers — an ulcer of the stomach or ulcer in the upper part of the small intestines — of which 2% carry a risk of progressing to cancer. Worldwide, it is estimated that 50% of individuals are infected with H. pylori, and the percentage increases in those who resided in Asian and African countries.

At Bumrungrad International Hospital, the urea breath test is the go-to test when testing for H. pylori, as it is quick and highly accurate, taking approximately 30 minutes to complete. Furthermore, it is safe for children and expectant mothers.

What are the Symptoms of H. Pylori Infection and Who Should Consider Being Tested?

Recommendations for H. Pylori Testing Are Based on Risk of Progression or Harm:

• People experiencing symptoms associated with ulcers including abdominal bloating, excess gas, indigestion, or loss of appetite
• People with a history of peptic ulcers
• Those with a family history of gastrointestinal cancer
• People who take aspirin or NSAIDS regularly as these can weaken the lining of the stomach

What Examination Options are Commonly Used to Diagnose H. Pylori?

• Urea breath test
• Upper endoscopy with biopsy
• Stool examination

What Treatments are Currently Available?

Treating of H. Pylori Infection generally includes taking both acid reflux medications, which will reduce pain and additional symptoms, as well as antibiotics to kill the bacteria.

 

Benefits

1. Painless.
2. No radiation.
3. Safe for children and pregnant women.
4. Assesses the rate of growth of bacteria.
5. High accuracy in monitoring and managing treatment results.
6. Excellent sensitivity and specificity.

 

Procedure

1. Blow into the first bag until it is fully inflated.
2. Swallow the UBIT tablet within 5 seconds and drink one glass of water (100 milliliters). Do not chew the table or grind it up or let it dissolve.
3. Lie on your left side for approximately 5 minutes.
4. Sit up for 15 minutes.
5. When 20 minutes have passed since the UBIT tablet was swallowed, blow into the second bag until it is fully inflated.
6. Submit both bags to a hospital officer for analysis.
7. the results will be ready by 10 minutes

 
 

 

Digestive Disease (GI) Center

Bumrungrad International Hospital (BIH) Building, 2nd floor
Tel:  02 011 2167-8

Sunday through Friday - 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Saturday - 8:00 am to 7:00 pm