Couple of questions about H pylori

[Psyrebro]

Hello, my GF found out she has H pylori, GERD and gastritis about a month ago. She started the standard therapy of 2 antibiotics for 2 weeks, and 40mg Zoprax(pantoprazole) also for 2 weeks, after that 3 moths of 20mg Zoprax. Anyways, we are concerned about H pylori-s contagiousness, we would like to avoid back and forth transfer of the bactery between her and me if possible, the doctor didn't say anything about that. She has some really bad side effects such as pretty strong nausea, some stomach pain and bitterness, dryness in mouth cavity.

So I'm wondering if I should get checked, or even start a treatment even if I don't exhibit any symptoms, just so I don't transfer the bactery back to her. Also, how good are her chances of permanent recovery, or better said, how should she continue after the treatment to ensure it doesn't come back if at all possible?

[Helico_expert]

i think it's a good idea to have yourself checked. the fact is that H. pylori is extremely difficult to pass around via saliva. But with enough time of exposure, you only need one successful colonisation and then you are infected. in addition, ask your girl friend to discuss with doctor if it is possible to switch to H2 blocker (eg Zantac) instead of pantoprazole and then check if she still carry the H. pylori.

[michaeljonson]

H pylori passes only through saliva or poor hygiene practices. However getting yourself checked is a wise idea.