Gastric Pain and H. Pylori: What You Should Know

Many people experience stomach discomfort from time to time — bloating after meals, heartburn, or a dull ache in the upper abdomen. But when the pain keeps returning, it could be more than simple indigestion. One common cause is an infection called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
At Klinik Caring Johor, we offer quick and accurate H. pylori testing, including both antibody blood tests and the urea breath test, to help identify infection early. Knowing the cause of gastric pain allows our doctor to treat it effectively and prevent future problems.
If you are searching for a gastric pain clinic near me or H. pylori test in Malaysia, this article explains what the infection is, why it matters, and how we can help.
 

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What Is H. Pylori?

H. pylori is a type of bacteria that lives in the stomach lining. It weakens the protective layer of the stomach, allowing acid to irritate and damage the tissue. This leads to inflammation, known as gastritis.
If left untreated, H. pylori can cause:
•    Gastric ulcers – open sores in the stomach lining
•    Duodenal ulcers – ulcers in the upper small intestine
•    Chronic gastritis
•    Increased risk of stomach cancer over time
It’s a very common infection worldwide, but most people don’t realise they have it until symptoms appear.
 

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Common Symptoms of Gastric Pain
H. pylori infection and gastritis can cause:
•    Burning or aching pain in the upper abdomen
•    Bloating or fullness after eating
•    Nausea or vomiting
•    Loss of appetite
•    Frequent burping or acid reflux
•    Unexplained weight loss in severe cases

In simple terms: if your “gastric pain” improves briefly after eating but keeps coming back, it may be linked to H. pylori.
 

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How Does H. Pylori Spread?

The bacteria can spread through:

•    Contaminated food or water
•    Sharing utensils, cups, or food
•    Poor hand hygiene after using the toilet

It is not always caused by poor habits — even healthy individuals can become infected.
 

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Why Testing Is Important

Many people take antacids or herbal remedies for gastric pain, but these only give temporary relief. If H. pylori is the root cause, the infection will remain unless treated with antibiotics.

Testing helps to:
•    Confirm whether H. pylori infection is present
•    Guide proper treatment
•    Prevent ulcers and serious complications
•    Avoid unnecessary long-term medication

Early testing ensures faster recovery and better long-term health.
 

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H. Pylori Tests Available at Klinik Caring

At Klinik Caring (Impian Emas, Johor), we provide accurate, non-invasive H. pylori testing that can be done easily in our clinic.

1. H. Pylori Antibody Blood Test
This test checks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to H. pylori infection.
•    Simple and quick — just a routine blood sample
•    Can be done as part of your regular health screening
•    Useful for initial detection of infection
While antibodies may remain for a while after infection, this test provides helpful information about whether you have been exposed to H. pylori.
 

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2. H. Pylori Urea Breath Test (UBT)

The urea breath test detects active infection and is highly accurate.

You will be asked to breathe into a collection bag before and after drinking a harmless urea solution. If H. pylori bacteria are present, they break down the urea and release carbon dioxide, which can be measured in your breath.

Advantages:
•    Non-invasive and comfortable
•    No blood or stool samples required
•    Detects active infection (not just past exposure)
•    Safe for adults and children
Our doctor will recommend the best test for your situation based on your symptoms, medical history, and whether you’ve had treatment before.
 

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Treatment of H. Pylori Infection

If your test is positive, our doctor will prescribe a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medication to clear the infection and promote healing.

This treatment, called triple therapy, usually lasts 10 to 14 days and includes:

•    Two antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria
•    One proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to reduce stomach acid

After completing the course, we may repeat a breath test to confirm that the infection is gone.
 

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What Happens If H. Pylori Is Not Treated?
If H. pylori infection is left untreated, it can lead to:
•    Recurring gastric or duodenal ulcers
•    Persistent inflammation of the stomach lining
•    Internal bleeding from ulcers
•    A higher long-term risk of stomach cancer
Testing and treating early can prevent these serious complications.
 

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Other Common Causes of Gastric Pain

Not all stomach discomfort is caused by H. pylori. Other possible causes include:

•    Irregular eating patterns or skipping meals
•    Excessive coffee, spicy food, or alcohol
•    Stress and poor sleep
•    Frequent use of non-steroidal painkillers (NSAIDs)
•    Acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, or GERD)

Our doctor will perform an assessment and, if needed, recommend an abdominal ultrasound to check your stomach, liver, and gallbladder.
 

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Preventing H. Pylori Infection

You can lower your risk by:

•    Washing hands before meals and after using the toilet
•    Eating properly cooked food
•    Avoiding sharing utensils or drinking straws
•    Managing stress and keeping regular meal times
Good hygiene and healthy habits go a long way towards protecting your digestive health.
 

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When to See a Doctor Immediately

Seek medical help right away if you experience:

•    Black or tarry stools
•    Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
•    Severe, persistent stomach pain
•    Sudden unexplained weight loss
These may be signs of bleeding ulcers or other serious complications that need urgent care.
 

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Key Takeaways
•    H. pylori infection is a major cause of chronic gastric pain and ulcers.
•    Antibody blood test and urea breath test are available at Klinik Caring Impian Emas.
•    Treating H. pylori early prevents ulcers and stomach cancer.
•    Persistent gastric symptoms should not be ignored — early testing brings lasting relief.