Sneaky Creatures

My recent Colonoscopy follow-up appointment with my gastroenterologist (GI) revealed exciting information: I had some sneaky creatures inhabiting my stomach called H.pylori.

Before my actual Colonoscopy, the bowel preparation was worse than the exact procedure. I don’t remember the process.  Does anyone remember Propofol? I can see why Michael Jackson used that drug to get to sleep. You quickly nap and wake up at a moment’s notice.

The prep medication taste was dreadful. I nearly vomited at every sip I took.

The GI doc reviewed my Colonoscopy results and reminded me of the pre-cancerous polyps I had removed. I needed the upper endoscopy (EGD) procedure because of acid-related stomach issues plaguing me.

My signs and symptoms made it necessary for the upper endoscopy, including occasional abdominal pain with nausea and bloating after most meals.  Other symptoms might include unexplained weight gain, fatigue, constipation, or diarrhea.

The dangers of H.pylori infections lead to many more significant health problems.  It’s tied to serious health hazards such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic heartburn, gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).  It also raises the risk of stomach cancer by a small but significant amount.

So, what exactly is H.pylori?

Helicobacter pylori, AKA H.pylori, is a type of bacteria in your stomach. It is a bacteria that actively suppresses the production of stomach acid.  H.pylori is found in the mucous lining of the stomach and duodenum but can also adhere to the cells lining the stomach.  It has a rod-like helix shape, which allows it to burrow deep into the lining.

How does one get H. Pylori?

So the mystery remains: How did I get H. pylori? I remember when I went to Mexico, I wasn’t supposed to drink their water. Also, not practicing the best hygiene, i.e., not washing one’s hands after going to the bathroom, comes to my mind as a condition for getting H. pylori.

Estimates suggest that over 60% of the world’s population has H. pylori in their bodies. Many people come in contact with the bacteria when they are younger, but it can also affect adults.

It is common knowledge that H. pylori is found in people who live in countries that lack clean water and proper sewage systems, but the source of the bacteria has not been confirmed yet.

What’s the remedy to eradicate H.pylori?

To eradicate my H. pylori, I took a 14-day triple therapy that included two different antibiotics as well as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

Natural Remedies are also available: probiotics, Cranberry juice, Manuka Honey, and edible herbs like thyme, ginger, turmeric, garlic, and cinnamon, as instructed by a Health Counselor or natural.

Check with your healthcare provider if you experience ongoing stomach distress to make sure you don’t have those sneaky creatures lurking in your body.

Have a fabulous week!