Helicobacter pylori is known as a bacterium that multiplies exclusively in the stomach and duodenum, which is why it is closely related to various disorders that directly affect the digestive system, such as peptic ulcers, gastritis and others. This is why many specialists consider it one of the most prevalent and frequent infections in all countries of the world; However, the causes of it are not well known, so it is important to stay alert to the presence of symptoms to see a doctor as soon as possible and carry out the correct treatment. This is because if the Helicobacter pylori bacteria is not detected in time, it can lead to stomach cancer.
Doctors assure that if the bacterium is diagnosed in time, around 80% of gastric tumors could be avoided and, at the same time, gastritis, ulcers and various alterations caused by it could be eliminated. If you are one of those who wonder: is Helicobacter pylori contagious? , we invite you to read the following article by FastlyHeal .
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Main symptoms of infection by Helicobacter pylori
There are certain cases in which it is difficult to discern whether a person is infected by the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, since not all patients develop the most classic symptoms, that is, gastritis or a peptide ulcer . The general symptoms presented by a patient with this type of alteration may vary a little from one to the other, which depends, among other things, on the general state of health in which he is at the time of contact with the microbe, since some people are able to stop the growth of this bacterium thanks to the great strength of their immune system and a totally healthy intestinal flora.
When the symptoms are evident, among the most frequent that a person infected by Helicobacter pylori may suffer are:
- Feeling bloated in the stomach
- Vomiting, nausea and / or dizziness.
- You lose weight and you want to eat.
- Presence of dark blood in the stool, although this occurs only in the most severe cases.
How Helicobacter pylori is transmitted
So far, there is no total certainty about the contagion of the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, but there are numerous evidences and reports that confirm that this chronic microorganism can be transmitted from person to person , mainly through saliva , so it is more often than not the contagion of this bacterium occurs among the closest beings such as parents and children, couples or people who are living in the same home.
There are also other forms of infection with Helicobacter pylori such as ingesting certain contaminated food or water . This is why the risk factors for the infection of this bacterium can also be related to the environment. Among them, it stands out being in a developing country with low sanitation infrastructure and poor water treatment, living in a place with few hygienic conditions, not having access to hot water, preparing food without washing hands well and do not disinfect fruits and vegetables.
The common reservoir of the bacteria is the gastric mucosa of humans and, although it has not been fully demonstrated, it is considered that it can also be found in domestic animals, so a cat or dog could be a risk factor in the contagion of Helicobacter pylori when they show their appreciation by licking.
Due to the fact that contagion can occur through the fecal-oral route , that is, when the remains of feces of a person sick with Helicobacter pylori are introduced through the mouth, the most vulnerable population is children due to their few hygienic habits, like not washing your hands properly after using the bathroom and before eating, as well as putting dirty hands in your mouth frequently. Therefore, it is possible that a person acquired the bacteria in childhood without causing alterations and showing symptoms in adulthood.
Are Helicobacter pylori bacteria sexually transmitted?
On the other hand, Helicobacter pylori infection is not classified as a sexually transmitted disease; However, through its fecal-oral route, when having sex with an infected person there is a risk of acquiring the bacteria if oral sex is performed in the anal area or on the genitals after anal sex, even if they are introduced. sex toys in the anus and then put in the mouth.
How to prevent Helicobacter pylori
Although it is difficult to completely avoid infection with the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, there are certain measures that can help considerably to prevent its spread , so it is important to keep them in mind, especially if you are exposed to any risk factor for its transmission. Among them, the following stand out:
- Wash fresh food properly before eating.
- Cook all food properly.
- Wash your hands before eating or cooking.
- Promptly clean kitchen utensils.
- Drink water from decontaminated sources.
- Do not put the dirty hand in the mouth, or touch the eyes or the mucosa when the fingers are not completely clean.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Is Helicobacter pylori spread? , we recommend that you enter our Digestive System category .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.