Is It Just Indigestion? 7 H. pylori Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

If your stomach issues have become a constant companion, it’s time to listen to what your body is telling you. Here are 7 H. pylori symptoms you shouldn’t ignore.

1. A Gnawing or Burning Stomach Ache

This isn’t just any stomach pain; it’s distinct. Many people describe it as a dull, gnawing, or burning ache in the upper abdomen.

• What it feels like: The pain often worsens when your stomach is empty—for instance, between meals or in the middle of the night. Eating food or taking an antacid can sometimes provide temporary relief. This classic symptom is often associated with the development of stomach ulcers caused by the bacteria.

2. Persistent and Uncomfortable Bloating

Do you feel full after eating only a small amount of food? Or does your stomach feel swollen and tight for no apparent reason?

• Relatable scenario: You’ve been careful with your diet, avoiding greasy foods and carbonated drinks, but you still experience significant bloating daily. This is one of the leading bloating causes that patients report when they are later diagnosed with H. pylori.

3. Frequent, Unexplained Burping

While a burp after a fizzy drink is normal, excessive and frequent burping throughout the day is not. H. pylori can increase gas production in the stomach, leading to constant burping as your body tries to relieve the pressure.

4. Persistent Nausea

A persistent, low-grade feeling of queasiness is another common symptom. You might not feel sick enough to vomit, but the constant feeling of nausea can significantly impact your appetite and quality of life. In some cases, the infection can cause enough irritation to lead to actual vomiting.

5. Loss of Appetite and Unexplained Weight Loss

When you constantly feel bloated, nauseous, and in pain, your appetite naturally decreases. This, combined with the body’s inflammatory response to the infection, can lead to unexplained weight loss. If you’re losing weight without trying, it’s a significant red flag that warrants a medical investigation.

6. Dark or Tarry Stools (Melena)

This is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention. Dark, black, or tar-like stools can indicate bleeding in your stomach, a potential complication of an untreated H. pylori-induced ulcer. If you notice this, do not wait—seek medical help right away.

7. Worsening Acid Reflux or Heartburn

While often seen as a separate issue, H. pylori can worsen acid reflux symptoms. The bacterial infection can disrupt the delicate balance of your stomach, potentially increasing acid production or damaging the esophageal sphincter’s function, leading to more frequent and severe heartburn.

If you’re experiencing a combination of these issues, especially persistent stomach ache and bloating, it’s crucial not to self-diagnose or simply keep taking over-the-counter remedies. These are clear signs you need an H. pylori test. Finding out if you have the infection is the first step toward effective treatment and long-term relief.

At Medpro Laboratory Clinic, we provide fast, accurate, and confidential testing for H. pylori and a comprehensive range of other health concerns, including STD/STI screening, blood tests, and routine health checks. Our state-of-the-art laboratory ensures you get reliable results, empowering you and your doctor to make the right treatment decisions.

Located in the heart of Bangkok for ultimate convenience, our clinic is easily accessible for locals, expatriates, and tourists. You can find us right next to the BTS Asok and MRT Sukhumvit stations, making your visit quick and stress-free.