Testing, treating and reducing risk of H. pylori

Routine testing for H. pylori is not recommended if you don’t have any symptoms or a history of peptic ulcer disease. Most experts agree that most people don’t need to be tested for H. pylori infection, but there is evidence to support testing and treating H. pylori in certain high-risk individuals.

There are 4 ways to test for H. pylori:

• breath test
• blood test
• stool test
• endoscopy

Treating H. pylori infection

People infected with H. pylori are usually given a combination of antibiotics and a drug to help reduce acid in the stomach for 7 to 14 days. It cures H. pylori infection in 80% to 90% of people.

How to reduce your risk of H. pylori infection

The source of H. pylori isn’t known, so there aren’t specific recommendations for avoiding infection. In general, it’s always wise for you to:

• wash your hands well or use a hand sanitizer
• eat food that has been properly prepared
• drink water from a safe, clean source

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