H. pylori Test-ImageH. pylori Test

🦠 H. pylori Test
A diagnostic test used to detect Helicobacter pylori — a common stomach bacteria linked to ulcers and digestive issues.

 

 

🔍 What is it?
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a spiral-shaped bacterium that lives in the stomach lining. It can cause chronic inflammation (gastritis) and is a major cause of stomach ulcers and even stomach cancer in some cases.

The H. pylori test identifies whether the bacteria is present using various methods depending on your symptoms and clinical history.

 

 

🧪 What does it measure?
Depending on the test type, it may look for:

  • H. pylori antigens in stool – detects active infection
  • H. pylori antibodies in blood – shows current or past exposure
  • Urea breath test – highly accurate test for active infection
  • Endoscopic biopsy – used if you’re undergoing a gastroscopy

 

 

❓ Why might I need it?

You may be advised to take this test if you experience:

  • 🔥 Persistent indigestion or heartburn
  • 🍽️ Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
  • 🩸 Stomach pain, especially when hungry
  • 😵 Nausea, bloating, or frequent belching
  • 🩺 Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
  • 💊 You're starting long-term use of NSAIDs or PPIs
  • A history of stomach ulcers or gastritis
  • You're being investigated for anaemia (especially B12 or iron deficiency)



🧬 Conditions it can help detect:

 

  • H. pylori infection
  • Chronic gastritis
  • Peptic ulcers (gastric or duodenal)
  • Risk factor for stomach (gastric) cancer
  • May contribute to B12 deficiency or low iron



🩺 How is it done?

 

  • 🧫 Stool test: Collect a small sample at home
  • 💨 Breath test: Drink a urea solution; exhaled breath is tested
  • 💉 Blood test: A simple blood sample (less commonly used now)
  • 🔬 Endoscopy: If more invasive investigation is needed

⏱️ Results usually available in 2–5 working days, depending on the method

⚠️ You may need to stop taking PPIs or antibiotics for 2 weeks before the test for accurate results.

 

 

💷 Typical Private Cost in the UK:
 

£50–£150 depending on test type
Often included in digestive health panels

 

 

✅ Commonly Combined With:

 

  • Full Blood Count (FBC) – to check for anaemia
  • Vitamin B12 & Iron levels – absorption may be affected
  • Stool analysis – to rule out other gut infections
  • Liver Function Tests (LFTs) – if digestive symptoms are widespread
  • Endoscopy – for persistent or severe symptoms

 

 

 

📚 References:

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