Two Years Post H pylori Treatment and Miserable
Posted: Sat Aug 18, 2012 3:04 am
Two years ago, I went to the doctor with excruciating abdominal pain and vomiting. A blood test confirmed I was positive for H pylori, so I took the 15 day treatment of clarithromycin, amoxicillin and aciphex. However, my symptoms were not due to the bacteria, but due to gallstones in my gallbladder. About one week into the treatment, I experienced nausea, a bloated upper and lower abdomen, belching and gas. Since then, I have seen numerous doctors and have had numerous tests. I still experience nausea, constant abdominal bloating, belching, and gas, as well as a bunch of other symptoms including a coated tongue, sore throat, heartburn, reflux, dry hair, dry skin, dry mouth, dry eyes, brittle nails, and extreme fatigue. I do not have the H pylori bacteria anymore (it was confirmed twice by stool tests). In fact, the test showed that I do not have any gram-negative bacteria at all. Other tests showed bacterial overgrowth, and mild steatorrhea. An endoscopy revealed esophagitis. The latest abdominal and pelvic ultrasounds and HIDA scan were normal. The MRCP was normal also. I do not have any gallstones anymore (confirmed twice), and my gallbladder is functioning properly. I have tried many natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial supplements, as well as more prescriptions and probiotics. The doctors are basically stumped and refuse to help me anymore. All I know is this misery started during the treatment to eradicate H pylori and before two years ago, I was digestively perfect. I am assuming that I have had H pylori for years, but never had any symptoms. I am not sure if killing the good bacteria or actually killing the H pylori is the cause of my symptoms. I am starting to think that H pylori was beneficial for me. Please let me know if you have any ideas as to what could be causing my problems. Thank you for your time.