A COMMON STOMACH BACTERIAL INFECTION
H. pylori Infection
A common stomach infection caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which can lead to gastritis, ulcers and long-term risks if untreated. Eradication therapy provides effective cure.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is H. pylori Infection
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterial infection of the stomach lining that is one of the most common chronic infections worldwide. Many people acquire it in childhood through contaminated food or water, and it can persist for life if untreated. While many infected people have no symptoms, H. pylori is a leading cause of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers and recurrent indigestion, and is also associated with a higher long-term risk of stomach cancer and certain rare stomach tumours. Diagnosis is usually made through breath tests, stool tests, blood tests or endoscopy with biopsy. A combination eradication treatment given over 10 to 14 days is highly effective. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides accurate diagnosis, eradication therapy and follow-up care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Infection with H. pylori bacteria, often acquired in childhood
- Contaminated food, water or close contact in unhygienic conditions
- Crowded living environments and poor sanitation
- Family clustering — close relatives may be infected
- Inadequate hand hygiene
- More common in developing regions
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Breath test, stool antigen test, blood test or endoscopy with biopsy
Combination eradication therapy for 10 to 14 days
Test of cure is usually recommended after treatment
Gastritis, peptic ulcers and long-term risk of stomach cancer
Re-infection is uncommon after successful eradication
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Combination Eradication Therapy
The most effective approach is a structured combination eradication course given for 10 to 14 days, followed by confirmation of clearance through repeat testing. This reduces the risk of ulcers and lowers long-term complications.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews your symptoms, examines you and arranges a breath test, stool antigen test or endoscopy as appropriate.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised eradication plan is created based on local resistance patterns, prior antibiotic exposure and any complications.
- 3
Medical Management
Structured eradication therapy, acid-suppression therapy and dietary advice during the treatment period.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
A test of cure is recommended after treatment to confirm successful clearance, with follow-up of any associated ulcer or gastritis.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Combination Eradication Therapy
A structured combination of medications taken for 10 to 14 days is the foundation of H. pylori treatment, with high cure rates when adherence is good.
10–14-Day Treatment Course
Completing the full course exactly as prescribed is essential for success and to reduce the risk of resistance.
Confirmation of Eradication
Repeat testing some weeks after treatment confirms that the bacteria have been fully cleared.
Diet and Lifestyle Counselling
Advice on diet, alcohol avoidance, stress management and avoiding anti-inflammatory medication where possible supports recovery.
Follow-up Testing
Follow-up review and testing in selected patients helps detect any recurrence or persistence and guides further care.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.