Blood Test for h Pylori

What is an H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) test?

H. pylori is a type of bacteria that infects the stomach lining and duodenum, causing ulcers and gastritis. An H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) test detects the presence of H. pylori bacteria in the stomach or duodenum. This bacterium is linked to conditions like gastritis and peptic ulcers and can increase the risk of stomach cancer.

When should you take an H. pylori test?

Your doctor may recommend an H. pylori test in the following situations:

• Vomiting and nausea.
• Bloating.
• Burning pain in the middle or upper abdomen between meals.
• To confirm if H. pylori is causing stomach or duodenal ulcers.
• When inflammation of the stomach lining is suspected.
• Family history of stomach cancer

What are the tests for H. Pylori?

Here are some important tests for H. Pylori-

Helicobacter Pylori Antigen Detection Test- The Helicobacter pylori antigen detection test identifies the presence of H. pylori bacterial proteins (antigens) in a stool sample. This non-invasive test is highly effective in diagnosing an active infection because it directly detects components of the bacteria, rather than relying on immune response markers. It is highly sensitive and provides reliable results because it measures active infection.

Helicobacter Pylori IgM Antibodies Test- The Helicobacter pylori IgM antibodies test detects the presence of IgM class antibodies in the blood. IgM antibodies appear early after initial exposure to H. pylori, which helps to identify recent and acute infections. However, IgM levels decline quickly as the disease progresses or becomes chronic. This is a blood test and helps to understand whether the body is currently fighting a new H. pylori infection, but it may not detect older infections or confirm eradication after treatment.

Helicobacter Pylori IgA Antibodies Test- The test measures the presence of IgA class antibodies in the blood. It reflects the immune system's response to an active H. pylori infection in the stomach's mucosal lining. IgA antibodies play a crucial role in mucosal immunity, indicating an ongoing or recent infection.

Helicobacter Pylori IgG Antibodies Test- The Helicobacter pylori IgG antibodies test detects IgG antibodies in the blood. IgG antibodies develop after the initial infection and can persist at elevated levels for months or even years. It is commonly used for initial screening. However, because IgG antibodies persist long after the bacteria are eradicated, this test cannot reliably differentiate between an active infection and one that has been resolved.

Test Details

How does an H. pylori test work?

An H. pylori test detects the H. pylori bacteria. Different tests work differently. A stool test detects bacterial proteins (antigens) in a stool sample, indicating an active infection. The blood test measures antibodies and shows current or past exposure.

Preparation Required for the H. Pylori test 

Depending upon the type of test, your doctor may recommend preparation tips. Here are some common preparation tips- 

• Your doctor may advise you to discontinue taking antibiotics and bismuth-containing medications (such as Pepto-Bismol) for at least 4 weeks before the test.
• Stop proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers like omeprazole, ranitidine, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole or esomeprazole, dexlansoprazole for about 2 weeks before the test.
• No special fasting is required, but follow your doctor's instructions.
• Follow your doctor's instructions for fasting (usually no food or drink for 6-8 hours before the procedure).
• Inform your doctor about any medications you're taking.

What happens during the H. Pylori test?

The H. pylori test can be done through stool samples and blood samples. The procedure depends on the type of test your doctor has recommended-

For the Stool test

Your healthcare provider will provide you with a container to collect the stool sample. You will need to collect the stool sample in a container, wrap it in a polybag, and then give it to the healthcare provider. 

The sample is tested in a lab for H. Pylori antigens. 

Blood Test

For a blood test, the healthcare provider wraps a tourniquet around the upper arm to make the veins more visible. He then cleans the arm area with an antiseptic wipe. He inserts a needle and collects the blood sample. Once enough blood is collected, the needle is removed.

The healthcare provider will apply pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball and then cover it with a bandage. You can resume your normal activities immediately. The procedure is quick and safe.

What should you expect after the H. Pylori test?

Your healthcare provider will send the samples to the lab for testing. The test results will be available within the time allotted (TAT). Results typically take a few days to appear. Consult your doctor 

to understand your test results. However, if the test is positive, you may recommend further tests or treatment. If it's negative but symptoms persist, they might suggest other ways to diagnose or rule out H. Pylori. 

Result and Follow-up

What do the test results mean?

The H. Pylori blood antibody test results might indicate positive or negative results. Here is what the test results indicate- 

1. Positive Result

• A H. pylori test positive means antibodies to H. Pylori are present in your blood.
• This means you have been exposed to the bacteria at some point in time.
• However, your healthcare professional may suggest additional tests to confirm whether the infection is active.

2. Negative Result

• A H. pylori test result of 'negative' means that no antibodies were detected, indicating that you are not infected with H. pylori or the infection.
• If you have symptoms, your doctor may recommend additional diagnostic methods to rule out H. Pylori or other potential causes.

What does it mean if you test positive for H. Pylori?

If you test positive for H. Pylori, the bacteria have been or are currently present in your stomach. Here's what that could mean for you:

• You likely have an active infection in your stomach lining or upper digestive tract.
• The bacteria can cause symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, nausea, frequent burping, or indigestion.
• If left untreated, H. Pylori infection can cause:

• Gastritis
• Peptic ulcers

• Increased risk of stomach cancer in rare cases

If you are found positive, your doctor may recommend an antibiotic treatment combined with medications to reduce stomach acid. The treatment takes 1-2 weeks and aims to eliminate the bacteria and heal the stomach lining. 

What does it mean if you test negative for H. Pylori?

If you test negative for H. Pylori, it means that:

• You do not currently have an active infection with H. Pylori bacteria in your stomach.
• There are fewer chances that H. Pylori is causing your symptoms if you. 
• If you have symptoms, your doctor will identify other potential causes and may recommend additional tests for you. 

Additional Common Questions

What are the common symptoms of an H pylori infection?

H. pylori infections do not always cause noticeable symptoms. However, they often cause stomach pain, nausea, loss of appetite, bloating, and frequent burping.

Can you treat H. pylori naturally?

The natural remedies can help manage symptoms and reduce the number of H. pylori bacteria. Natural remedies, such as probiotics, certain herbs, and dietary adjustments, can complement the treatment effectively. 

What is the first stage of H. pylori?

The initial stage of H. pylori infection, in terms of symptoms, is typically asymptomatic or characterized by mild, vague symptoms, such as abdominal discomfort, bloating, or nausea.

What foods do you avoid with H. pylori?

To manage an H. pylori infection, it is recommended to avoid certain foods, including spicy, acidic, fatty, and processed foods, as well as caffeinated drinks and alcohol. 

A note from Redcliffe Labs

Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori) is a common bacterial infection that affects the stomach lining. It can cause symptoms like stomach pain, indigestion, and nausea, and if left untreated, may lead to more serious conditions such as peptic ulcers and, rarely, stomach cancer. Get diagnosed early through proper diagnostic tests. You can choose Redcliffe Labs to get your test done. We provide affordable health checkups and also deliver the reports on time.

To book your test, follow the steps below- 

1. Visit the official Redcliffe Labs website, redcliffelabs.com.
2. Search for the H. Pylori test in the search bar. 
3. Add to the card and fill in the required details. 
4. Complete the payment process online.
5. Your test is booked.

Note: You will receive confirmation through SMS and WhatsApp.