Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori)

Helicobacter Pylori Test (H. pylori test)

The Helicobacter pylori (H. pyloric) test is a test that looks for evidence of an infection by a bacterium, known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). H. pylori are actually a class of microorganisms called spirochetes. They got their name because they are spherical in shape, like spiral pasta shells. Their hard, acid resistant exterior allows them to survive inside your stomach amongst your strong stomach acid that is there to break down things you eat and acts as an important step in the digestive process. It is theorized that the spherical shape of the microorganisms may also help them burrow into your stomach lining. These microorganisms also make chemicals that alter the acidity (Ph balance) of your stomach. The stomach lining is genetically designed to withstand the acid that your body produces for food digestion, but when the lining is compromised, such as from H. pylori, then the regular cells underneath the lining are easily broken down by the same stomach acid that is there to break down the foods you eat, and this can result in ulcers and bleeding.

However, other things, such as aspirin and NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) can also compromise the lining of your stomach. Common NSAIDS include ibuprofen, aspirin, and such brand names as Motrin, Voltaren, Naproxen, Advil, and just about anything you can buy over the counter in a drug store except for Tylenol. Tylenol is not an NSAID. Its generic name is acetaminophen and it acts to relieve pain in a different way than the other over the counter drugs aforementioned. However, for some pains and some conditions (such as certain liver diseases), many patients needed a better answer than Tylenol, and so many turned to NSAIDS, but it was discovered that with prolonged daily usage of NSAIDS, the stomach and gastrointestinal lining often became compromised. So, Drug Companies developed what was called "super-aspirins," such as VIOXX, with the intention that these super-aspirins would be easier on the gastrointestinal lining and cause fewer gastrointestinal bleeding incidents, including ulcers. It is important to note that opiate drugs such as codeine, hydrocodone, oxycodone and other morphine-like drugs do not seem to be associated so much with damage to the gastrointestinal lining. However, abuse of these drugs is unfortunately so common and such a problem that many physians are reluctant to use them or may use them as a last resort. Rashes and allergies are also common side effects of these drugs and may inhibit their usage.

So, what do H. pylori and pain relievers have in common? Well, if a pain medication compromises the integrity of the stomach lining, then it may make it easier for H. pylori to burrow in and take residence. From there, the problem can simply get worse. More and more damage to the stomach lining can occur, and more and more antacids (Pepcid, Zantac, famotidine, cimetidine, Tums, Rolaids, etc.) or analgesiecs (Maalox, Pepto-Bismol, etc.) seem needed to bring relief to hearburn and/or an upset stomach.

So, how could a H. pylori test help? Well, LabSafe tests for antibodies produced by your body to H. pylori. If your body is producing antibodies to H. pylori, then that is important information for your doctor because you most probably are infected with H. pylori, or you have been infected before and may be at risk for future infection. H. pylori infection can be treated and cured with a simple round of medications that include antibiotics. Clinical studies suggest that if the H. pylori infection is cured, and the gastrointestinal lining (including the stomach lining) is given enough time to heal, then the integrity of the stomach lining may be largely or even fully restored and then it may be o.k. to take NSAIDS again. It is important to remember that your physician should oversee and manage this process with you.

Many people who can not tolerate NSAIDS, do not want to take or can not take potentially addictive opiate drugs, do not find acetaminophen effective or can not or do not want to take it, and do not want to take "super-aspirins" (a subject of many lawsuits these days!); may find relief of their pain and a better lifestyle if they can identify antibodies to H. pylori, have their doctor evaluate them for active H. pylori infection and/or a damaged stomach lining, diagnose it and treat it and cure it, and then they may be able to better tolerate NSAIDS again.

*Disclaimer: Motrin, Voltaren, Naproxen, Advil, VIOXX, Maalox, Pepto-Bismol, Tums, Rolaids, Pepcid, Zantac, and Tylenol are each registered trademarks of their respective companies and are in no way associated with LabSafe or with this blog. LabSafe intentionally does not sell or promote any drugs and makes no claims on any drugs (prescription or otherwise) as to the safety, efficacy, or indications for usage of any drugs, be it by prescription, over the counter, or otherwise. Always consult your physician before you begin to use any medications; before you discontinue use of any medications prescribed by your doctor, and/or you choose to take or not take any medications. LabSafe is a medical laboratory testing company and is not a Drug Company, and is in no way associated with any Drug Company or Insurance Company. LabSafe's business concern is the health and well being of the American consumer as it relates only to laboratory tests and how those tests can help you and your doctor better manage your health.

H. pylori bacteria are now known to be a major cause of peptic ulcer disease. Helicobacter pylori is also associated with the development of gastric cancer. If you are experiencing gastrointestinal pain and symptoms of an ulcer, The Helicobacter pylori test may be ordered to determine if there is evidence of this disease. A positive test for Helicobacter pylori indicates that your gastrointestinal pain may be caused by this bacterium. Taking antibiotics and other medication(s) will kill the bacteria and may stop the pain and the ulceration. The American Cancer Society has stated that "people in families at high risk of developing stomach cancer may be even more likely to develop the disease if they are infected with a common bacteria known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). According to a recent study, screening these people for the bacteria might save lives."

To purchase a H. pylori test simply order online at LabSafe at http://www.labsafe.com/lab-tests/test/404/ or visit our website at www.labsafe.com

For more information, or to speak with a member of our professional Medical Staff, call LabSafe toll free at 1-888-333-LABS.