Sneaky Creatures

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

Before my actual Colonoscopy, the bowel preparation was worse that the actual procedure. In fact, I don’t remember the process.  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 included occasional abdominal pain with nausea and bloating after most meals.  Other symptoms might include unexplained weight gain, fatigue, and constipation or diarrhea.

The dangers of H.pylori infections lead to many larger 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 which resides 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 are what comes to my mind with conditions in getting H. pylori.

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

It is common knowledge h.pylori, found in people that live in countries that lack clean water and proper sewage systems, but a source of the bacteria is not 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 available as well:  Probiotics, Cranberry juice, Manuka Honey and edible herbs like thyme, ginger, tumeric, garlic, and cinnamon as instructed by a Health Counselor/Naturalpath.

Check with your health care 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!