Question 1

What is H. Pylori Infection?

Accepted Answer

H. Pylori infection is a bacterial infection of the stomach lining that causes peptic ulcers and chronic gastritis. It is caused by Helicobacter pylori, a spiral-shaped bacteria that colonizes the stomach and weakens its protective mucous layer. The H. Pylori Antigen Stool test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly detects active bacterial infection.

Question 2

What causes H. Pylori infection?

Accepted Answer

H. Pylori infection is caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria that enter your body through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with an infected person's saliva or other body fluids. Once inside, the bacteria burrow into the protective mucous lining of your stomach, where they release enzymes that neutralize stomach acid and allow them to survive. This bacterial colonization triggers an immune response that causes inflammation, gradually damaging the stomach lining and creating conditions that lead to ulcers and gastritis. The infection is typically acquired during childhood and can persist for decades if left untreated.

Question 3

What is the best test for H. Pylori infection?

Accepted Answer

The H. Pylori Antigen Stool test is the most important test for H. Pylori infection because it directly detects bacterial proteins in your stool, providing definitive proof of an active, current infection. Unlike antibody blood tests that only show past exposure, the stool antigen test confirms that H. pylori bacteria are currently living in your stomach and actively causing inflammation. This non-invasive test is highly accurate with sensitivity rates above 95%, making it the preferred diagnostic method recommended by gastroenterologists. The test is particularly valuable for both initial diagnosis and for confirming successful eradication after antibiotic treatment.

Question 4

When should I get tested for H. Pylori infection?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent stomach pain or burning sensations, especially between meals or at night, unexplained nausea or vomiting, frequent bloating or feeling full after eating small amounts, or black tarry stools that could indicate bleeding ulcers. Testing is also important if you have a family history of stomach ulcers or stomach cancer, have been taking long-term anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, or have been diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia without an obvious cause. Early detection allows for prompt antibiotic treatment that can cure the infection and prevent serious complications like peptic ulcers and stomach cancer.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of H. Pylori infection?

Accepted Answer

Most people with H. Pylori infection experience no symptoms initially, but when symptoms develop they typically include burning or gnawing stomach pain that comes and goes, especially when your stomach is empty. You might notice bloating, excessive burping, nausea, loss of appetite, and unintentional weight loss. Some people experience frequent indigestion or heartburn that does not improve with antacids. In more severe cases where ulcers have developed, you may see dark blood in your stool, vomit blood or coffee-ground-like material, or experience severe abdominal pain. These symptoms can be mistaken for general digestive issues, which is why testing is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Question 6

Who is at risk for H. Pylori infection?

Accepted Answer

People living in crowded conditions or areas with poor sanitation are at higher risk because H. pylori spreads through contaminated food and water or close contact with infected individuals. Children are particularly vulnerable as most infections occur during childhood and persist into adulthood. Your risk increases if you live with someone who has H. pylori infection, grew up in a developing country with limited access to clean water, or share eating utensils and food with multiple people. Individuals with compromised immune systems and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face elevated risk due to environmental factors that promote bacterial transmission.

Question 7

What happens if H. Pylori infection is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated H. Pylori infection can lead to peptic ulcers that cause severe pain, bleeding, and potentially life-threatening perforation of the stomach or intestinal wall. The chronic inflammation caused by persistent infection significantly increases your risk of developing stomach cancer, including gastric adenocarcinoma and a rare type called MALT lymphoma. You may develop chronic gastritis that progressively damages your stomach lining, leading to reduced acid production and poor nutrient absorption. Over time, this can result in vitamin B12 deficiency, iron-deficiency anemia, and increased vulnerability to other stomach infections. Early treatment with antibiotics can cure the infection and prevent these serious complications.

Question 8

Can H. Pylori infection be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

While blood tests can detect H. Pylori antibodies, they cannot distinguish between current and past infections, making them less reliable for diagnosis. The antibodies your body produces against H. pylori can remain in your bloodstream for months or even years after the bacteria has been eliminated, leading to false positive results. The H. Pylori Antigen Stool test is far more accurate because it detects actual bacterial proteins present only during active infection. For definitive diagnosis, stool antigen testing or urea breath tests are preferred because they confirm that the bacteria is currently living in your stomach rather than just indicating previous exposure.

Question 9

How is H. Pylori infection treated?

Accepted Answer

H. Pylori infection is treated with a combination therapy approach called triple or quadruple therapy, which includes two or three antibiotics along with a proton pump inhibitor to reduce stomach acid. The standard treatment lasts 10 to 14 days and typically includes antibiotics like amoxicillin, clarithromycin, or metronidazole combined with medications like omeprazole or lansoprazole. Your healthcare provider may also prescribe bismuth subsalicylate to protect your stomach lining and enhance antibiotic effectiveness. It is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve, as incomplete treatment can lead to antibiotic resistance and persistent infection. Follow-up testing is recommended 4 weeks after treatment to confirm the bacteria has been eradicated.

Question 10

How can I prevent H. Pylori infection?

Accepted Answer

You can reduce your risk of H. Pylori infection by practicing good hygiene, particularly washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the bathroom. Drink water from safe, clean sources and avoid consuming food or water that may be contaminated, especially when traveling to areas with poor sanitation. Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses, or food with others, and ensure food is properly cooked before eating. Teaching children proper handwashing techniques early in life is especially important since most infections occur during childhood. While complete prevention is challenging because transmission routes are not fully understood, these hygiene practices significantly lower your risk of infection.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with H. Pylori infection?

Accepted Answer

While natural remedies cannot replace antibiotic treatment for H. Pylori infection, some complementary approaches may help reduce symptoms and support stomach health. Probiotics containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains may help reduce H. pylori levels and minimize antibiotic side effects when used alongside standard treatment. Green tea contains polyphenols that have shown antibacterial properties against H. pylori in laboratory studies. Manuka honey, broccoli sprouts containing sulforaphane, and cranberry juice have demonstrated some anti-H. pylori activity in research settings. However, these should be viewed as supportive measures only, and you should never rely on natural remedies alone to treat an active infection. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements, especially if you are taking antibiotics.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
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                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
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            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
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            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

H. Pylori Infection Blood Test

What is H. Pylori Infection?

What causes H. Pylori infection?

What is the best test for H. Pylori infection?

When should I get tested for H. Pylori infection?

References

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