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Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori)
Helicobacter pylori, a common stomach bacterium, can cause ulcers, abdominal pain and serious complications if untreated. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers diagnosis and care—combining advanced testing, tailored treatment plans, dietary guidance and compassionate support for optimal healing.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
What Is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)?
Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacteria that lives in the lining of the stomach. Many people carry it without any signs, but in some cases it can cause inflammation, ulcers, and abdominal discomfort.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Person-to-person contact through saliva (kissing, shared utensils)
Contaminated food or water
Poor sanitation or crowded living conditions
Drinking untreated or unfiltered water
Eating undercooked or improperly handled food
Family history of stomach ulcers or gastritis
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in the early stages (asymptomatic)
Burning pain or ache in the upper abdomen
Bloating, frequent burping, or excessive gas
Nausea or a feeling of fullness after small meals
Loss of appetite and unintended weight loss
Dark or tarry stools (indicates bleeding ulcers in advanced cases)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses H. pylori?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
She reviews your symptoms (burning pain, bloating, nausea), risk factors (travel, family history, sanitation), and performs an abdominal exam to localize tenderness.
Noninvasive Testing
Urea Breath Test - You drink a labeled-urea solution and then exhale into a collection bag. Elevated isotope levels indicate active H. pylori infection.
Stool Antigen Test - A small stool sample is analyzed for H. pylori proteins to confirm infection.
Laboratory Blood Work
She may order serology to detect H. pylori antibodies, though this is primarily used when other tests are inconclusive.
Upper Endoscopy (if indicated)
When symptoms are severe or noninvasive tests conflict, Dr. Nguyen performs an endoscopy. A flexible scope inspects the stomach lining for ulcers and collects biopsy samples for rapid urease testing, histology, or culture.
Treatment
Our Team offers personalized treatment options for H. pylori infection.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Support
Small, frequent meals and avoidance of spicy or acidic foods
Guidance on quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake
Stress-reduction techniques such as light exercise and deep-breathing exercises
2. Medications
Triple therapy: two antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin with amoxicillin or metronidazole) plus a proton pump inhibitor
Customized antibiotic regimens based on individual factors and local resistance patterns
Follow-up testing (urea breath or stool test) to confirm eradication
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Upper endoscopy for direct visualization, biopsy, and assessment of ulceration
Endoscopic hemostasis or ulcer treatment with specialized tools when bleeding or complications occur
Most procedures are outpatient with same-day discharge and quick recovery
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is H. pylori contagious?
Yes. It can spread through saliva, food, or water. Washing hands and using clean dishes helps prevent infection.
Can family members spread H. pylori to each other?
Yes. Sharing utensils or close contact can spread the bacteria. Proper hygiene lowers the risk.
Can H. pylori lead to cancer?
Long-term infection may increase the risk of stomach cancer. Symptoms to watch for include lasting stomach pain, weight loss, or blood in the stool.
What is the urea breath test?
This test checks for H. pylori by measuring your breath after drinking a special liquid. It is safe, fast, and accurate.
How soon will I feel better after starting treatment?
Most people feel less bloated and notice less pain within two weeks. Full healing may take a few weeks longer.
Can H. pylori come back?
It is rare but possible. Dr. Nguyen will follow up to make sure the infection is gone and help you avoid reinfection.
Do I always need an endoscopy?
Not always. Many people are diagnosed with noninvasive tests. Endoscopy is used only when symptoms are severe or tests are unclear.
