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Treatment to get rid of H. pylori works really well. At least 8 in 10 people who are treated get rid of these bacteria (germs).

Getting rid of H. pylori usually cures stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and some other problems that are caused by these bacteria, such as gastritis. (Your duodenum is the part of your gut just below your stomach.)

We found one small study in which people with duodenal ulcers had treatment to get rid of H. pylori. This study showed that treatment can:^{1 2}

• Reduce the pain and discomfort you have around your stomach, or get rid of the pain altogether
• Reduce your distress
• Help you get on with your daily life, including your sex life
• Reduce or get rid of gas
• Reduce heartburn.

Some people don't have an ulcer but they have similar symptoms. Doctors call this non-ulcer dyspepsia. If you have non-ulcer dyspepsia, treatment for H. pylori is also likely to help your symptoms.³

People who are infected with H. pylori are at higher risk of getting stomach ulcers. One in 100 people with this infection will get stomach cancer during their lifetime.⁴

But doctors don't know whether getting rid of H. pylori reduces your risk of getting cancer. At the moment, doctors don't advise everyone to be tested and treated for H. pylori.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.