What Is Helicobacter Pylori Gastritis?
Gastritis is a general term referring to inflammation or irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. Gastritis can be caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), thus H. pylori gastritis. Certain medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs), like aspirin and ibuprofen, can cause gastritis as well. H. pylori works by attacking the mucous shield that coats the stomach and duodenum. When the bacterium creates a wound in the gastrointestinal tract, it has caused an ulcer. H. pylori is believed to be passed from person to person, although the exact mechanism of infection remains unclear. H. pylori is a very common cause of peptic ulcers and gastritis in adults, but it can and does occur in children too. Symptoms Many people are carriers of H. pylori but do not have symptoms or have very mild symptoms. Symptoms of H. pylori ulcer and gastritis include: • dull stomach ache or pain • abdominal discomfort that comes and goes • bloating and sensation of fullness
