Digestive condition

Helicobacter pylori testing and follow-up

The appropriate test depends on previous gastroscopy, treatment history and current medicines such as acid-suppressing drugs.

Overview

Current infection and past exposure are different

Blood antibody, breath, stool and endoscopic tests have different roles and may be affected by medicines or prior treatment.

After eradication therapy, confirmation is important because symptom improvement alone does not prove that the infection has cleared.

Urgent signs

Arrange prompt medical assessment if these changes occur

These findings do not identify one diagnosis, but they can change how quickly you should be assessed.

  • Vomiting blood or black stool
  • Persistent vomiting, anemia or significant upper abdominal pain
  • Progressive swallowing difficulty or unintentional weight loss

What we check

What we review during the consultation

We combine the course of the symptom or result with the medical background rather than judging from one finding alone.

01

Timing and pattern

We review previous positive tests, eradication therapy, confirmation testing and current medicines.

02

Symptoms that occur together

Stomach pain, early fullness, nausea, black stool, anemia and weight loss are checked.

03

Medical history and medicines

We review current conditions, operations, family history, alcohol and smoking, prescribed medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements.

Consultation flow

From consultation to the next step

The order may change according to the symptom or result. We first review urgency and then select the appropriate evaluation.

  1. 01

    Review symptoms and course

    We organize the main symptoms, when they began and how they affect daily life.

  2. 02

    Consider similar conditions

    Other conditions that can cause similar symptoms and findings that need prompt attention are reviewed.

  3. 03

    Assess with appropriate tests

    Blood, stool, imaging and endoscopy are combined according to the clinical situation.

  4. 04

    Discuss treatment

    Options are reviewed in light of the results, other conditions and daily life.

  5. 05

    Review progress

    Symptoms and test results are followed to decide whether treatment should continue or change.

Assessment

How we decide the next step

01

Clinical review

The consultation begins by organizing the course of the symptom or screening result and checking whether prompt evaluation is needed.

02

Tests selected for the situation

Breath, stool, blood or endoscopic testing is selected according to previous treatment, medicines and insurance criteria.

03

Treatment and follow-up

We explain the findings and decide whether treatment, observation, additional testing or referral to a hospital is appropriate.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Helicobacter pylori

These are general principles. Individual testing and treatment are decided during the consultation.

Will I always need an endoscopy?

Not always. The need for gastroscopy depends on previous findings, symptoms, age and the purpose of testing.

Do I need an appointment for the first consultation?

General medical consultations do not require an appointment. Please visit during clinic hours. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy are arranged separately after the required information is reviewed.

Medical references

General medical information is based on public guidance from professional societies and national institutions. Individual care is determined after clinical review.

Contact

General consultation for Helicobacter pylori does not require an appointment

Visit during clinic hours. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy requests are handled through the dedicated page.