Helicobacter Pylori: UK Online Doctor Testing & Treatment
Educational information — not medical advice.
This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.
Key points
- H. pylori is a stomach bacterium causing ulcers and chronic gastritis.
- Test if persistent dyspepsia, ulcer disease or family history of gastric cancer.
- Eradication: 7-day triple therapy (PPI + 2 antibiotics).
- Confirm clearance 4–8 weeks after treatment.
- Reduces ulcer recurrence and cancer risk.
Testing
- Stool antigen test — convenient, accurate.
- Urea breath test — highly accurate.
- Serology — less reliable; not preferred.
- Biopsy at endoscopy.
- Avoid PPI for 2 weeks before testing for accuracy.
Treatment
- Standard triple therapy: PPI + amoxicillin + clarithromycin (or metronidazole) for 7 days.
- Penicillin allergy: PPI + clarithromycin + metronidazole.
- Re-test 4–8 weeks after treatment to confirm eradication.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions UK patients ask about helicobacter pylori infection.
How an online doctor can help
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This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.
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