Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is primarily caused by the transmission of the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, which can occur in various ways. Here are the main causes and risk factors:
1. Person-to-Person Transmission
- Oral-to-Oral Route: H. pylori can spread through saliva, especially in families or close contacts. Sharing utensils, kissing, or other forms of close contact can transmit the bacteria.
- Fecal-to-Oral Route: Poor hygiene, especially after using the bathroom, can lead to contamination of food, water, or surfaces with fecal matter containing H. pylori, leading to infection when ingested.
2. Contaminated Food or Water
- Unsafe drinking water: In regions with poor sanitation or water treatment, H. pylori can be present in the water supply, increasing the risk of infection.
- Contaminated food: Eating food that has been handled by someone with the infection or that has been contaminated with unclean water can introduce the bacteria into the digestive system.
3. Living Conditions
- Crowded living environments: Living in close quarters, especially in large families, can increase the likelihood of spreading H. pylori.
- Poor sanitation: Areas with inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices are at higher risk of H. pylori transmission due to contaminated water or food.
4. Geographical Location
- Higher prevalence in developing countries: H. pylori is more common in areas with poor access to clean water and sanitation facilities. In developing nations, up to 80% of the population may be infected, compared to lower rates in developed countries.
5. Age and Childhood Exposure
- Childhood transmission: Infection often occurs in childhood, especially in areas where the bacteria are common. Once infected, a person can carry the bacteria for life unless treated with antibiotics.
6. Poor Hygiene Practices
- Lack of handwashing: Inadequate handwashing, especially after using the restroom or before preparing food, increases the chances of spreading H. pylori.
7. Weakened Immune System
- Compromised immunity: Individuals with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to H. pylori infections due to their body's reduced ability to fight off bacterial invaders.
Risk Factors for Infection:
- Living in developing countries or regions with poor sanitation.
- Being part of large families or living in crowded conditions.
- Having a family history of H. pylori infection.
- Poor personal hygiene or lack of access to clean water.
Once inside the stomach, H. pylori can survive in the acidic environment by producing an enzyme called urease, which neutralizes the stomach acid around the bacteria. It can then penetrate the stomach lining, causing inflammation and leading to conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, and even stomach cancer in severe cases.
Prevention focuses on good hygiene practices, access to clean water, and avoiding contaminated food and water.
H. pylori is probably spread by consuming food or water contaminated with the organism that is excreted in fecal matter of infected individuals. H. pylori causes changes to the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) (figure 1).Aug 3, 2022
What is the number one cause of H. pylori?
H. pylori is probably spread by consuming food or water contaminated with the organism that is excreted in fecal matter of infected individuals.
H. pylori causes changes to the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine)
What naturally kills pylori?
H. pylori: Natural Treatments and More
Natural treatment for H. pylori: Probiotics help maintain the balance between good and bad gut bacteria.
Green tea. ...
Honey. ...
Olive oil. ...
Licorice root. ...
Broccoli sprouts. ...
Phototherapy. ...
Curcumin.
One study found that people whose diets were high in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds had lower risks of H. pylori infection.
But those whose diets were full of carbohydrates, processed grains and meats, sugars, and salt were more likely to have H. pylori infections.Sep 27, 2023
