Helicobacter Forums

Hi everyone, I am due to submit a Stool Antigen Test to test for H Pylori. My symptoms are burping, flatulence, indigestion. I just had a question about the stool test, as I am not too familiar with this bacteria. As this bacteria is present in a lot of the worlds population, if they were tested via stool sample. would they test positive for this bacteria too? If yes, and if I test positive, how can I be sure my symptoms are from h pylori and not just general indigestion? I’m scared of the chance of being treated with the antibiotic course when it wasn’t needed. Thank you for your help

Sarah

Hi Sarah,

You've come to the right place to find out about H. pylori.

about half the world population is infected with this bacteria. However, not everyone has symptoms. 80% of the carrier has no symptoms. about 10% will develop ulcers. about 1% of the symptomatic patients will progress to long term problem and even cancer.

there are many ways to diagnose H. pylori infection, but stool and breath test are the easiest.
However, both tests rely on bacteria load and so, if you are taking any PPI or antibiotics or any herbs that may reduce acid, then the test may produce false negative. So please stop taking any of the above for at least 2 weeks prior the test.

If you are indeed positive of H. pylori, all you need is a combination of antibiotics.

Hi, thank you for your reply.

I don’t currently take anything for acid reflux. Because it relies on bacteria load, is there a chance someone could be a carrier but not show up as positive on a stool test because they have low bacteria load?

Thank you for your help!

If you are young and healthy, then we assume you have good acid in the stomach. Which you certainly are in that category because you are experiencing reflux. Therefore, your chance of having a good H. pylori load is high.

In some older people (>50), their stomach was so damaged, they dont produce enough acid. Then other bacteria start growing and can reduce H. pylori load.