What are the symptoms of Helicobacter pylori infection?

Under normal circumstances, the main symptoms of Helicobacter pylori infection include upper abdominal pain, postprandial fullness, acid reflux, belching, nausea, and similar discomforts. If experiencing any of these symptoms, timely consultation and treatment at a regular hospital are recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Upper Abdominal Pain

Helicobacter pylori can damage the gastric mucosa, causing inflammation or ulcers that stimulate the nerves of the gastric mucosa, leading to upper abdominal pain. The pain is often described as dull, distended, or burning, and may worsen when the stomach is empty or after eating. Some patients may experience pain with a certain regularity.

2. Postprandial Fullness

Bacterial irritation of the gastric mucosa can affect the normal motility and digestive functions of the stomach, delaying gastric emptying. A feeling of fullness may occur even after small meals, accompanied by reduced appetite.

3. Acid Reflux

Helicobacter pylori infection may damage the gastric mucosa and disrupt the regulation of gastric acid secretion, resulting in excessive acid production. This acid may reflux into the esophagus, causing symptoms of acid regurgitation. Patients often experience a sour taste in the mouth, particularly noticeable when fasting or at night.

4. Belching

Gastric digestive dysfunction caused by the infection can lead to prolonged retention of food in the stomach, resulting in gas production from fermentation. When gas cannot be expelled normally, frequent belching occurs. Patients may repeatedly experience hiccups, sometimes accompanied by gastric discomfort.

5. Nausea

Inflammation and irritation of the gastric mucosa along with abnormal gastric motility may trigger nausea. Some patients may experience vomiting after nausea, typically expelling stomach contents, which can severely affect normal eating.

In addition, some patients may also develop bad breath, weight loss, and other symptoms. If any of the above symptoms appear, attention should be paid to maintaining dietary regularity, avoiding overeating, reducing consumption of spicy, greasy, or cold foods; implementing portion-controlled meals, avoiding shared tableware to prevent cross-infection; following medical advice to complete treatment, and undergoing regular follow-up examinations to ensure complete eradication of bacteria and prevent recurrence of the condition.