Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria and many people do not have any symptoms or know they have it. The bacteria can live in your body for years before it begins to create ulcers in your stomach and small intestine.
The good news is that the bacteria can be treated and the office of Dr. Justin McCarthy has the test and treatment to help you get back on track and feel your best! The H. pylori test is the simplest and easiest test for patients who need to check for the presence of H. pylori bacteria in their stomach. There are a few ways to test for H. pylori, but in our office we utilize a breath test. To complete the Urea Breath Test, the patient will breathe into a bag, then drink a special drink (urea) through a straw, wait 15 minutes, then breathe into a second bag. The test is then run on a machine, and the results will be available before the patient leaves the lab.
If the test is positive, the bacteria will change the urea in your body into carbon dioxide, and show that you have higher than normal levels of the gas. Based on these results, Dr. Justin McCarthy will determine the necessary antibiotic regimen for treatment. Once treatment has started, you should begin feeling better within a couple of weeks.
If the test is positive, the bacteria will change the urea in your body into carbon dioxide, and show that you have higher than normal levels of the gas. Based on these results, Dr. Justin McCarthy will determine the necessary antibiotic regimen for treatment. Once treatment has started, you should begin feeling better within a couple of weeks.
In addition to the treatment plan provided to you, you can prevent infection by practicing good hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly. You can also practice safe eating habits by drinking clean water and making sure your food is cooked properly.
If you are experiencing gnawing or burning abdominal pain that does not go away when your stomach is empty or in the middle of the night, you may want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Justin McCarthy. Additional symptoms from H. pylori may include:
- Burping
- Lack of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Poor breath
Our office has the medical treatment that you can trust! Dr. Justin McCarthy has been practicing in Lubbock, TX since 1992. Contact us today for your Gastroenterology and general health needs.
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