Written and reviewed by Dr Ali Zad, FRACP gastroenterologist, Brisbane. Last reviewed November 2026 against current Australian and international guidelines. General information only, not a substitute for personal medical advice.
Not all upper tummy burning is H. pylori. Read about what causes acid reflux.
On this page
What is Helicobacter pylori?
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common bacterium that lives in the stomach lining. Many people have no symptoms, but it can cause gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers, and slightly increases the risk of stomach cancer.
How is H. pylori tested and treated?
It can be detected with a urea breath test, a stool antigen test, or biopsies at gastroscopy. For accurate results, stop PPIs for 2 weeks and antibiotics or bismuth for 4 weeks before a breath or stool test. First-line treatment in Australia is a 14-day course of a PPI with two antibiotics (amoxicillin and clarithromycin, or metronidazole if you are allergic to penicillin). Because antibiotic resistance is rising, a test of cure at least 4 weeks after finishing treatment (and 2 weeks off PPIs) is recommended for everyone.
Guideline: Therapeutic Guidelines; RACGP Australian Journal of General Practice, 2025.
What causes stomach ulcers?
The two main causes are H. pylori infection and anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen, diclofenac or aspirin. Symptoms include upper abdominal pain, indigestion and nausea. Black stools or vomiting blood need urgent medical attention.
Can H. pylori come back after treatment?
Reinfection after successful treatment is uncommon in Australia. If symptoms return, your doctor may repeat a breath test.
Should my family be tested for H. pylori?
Routine testing of all family members is not usually needed. Testing is recommended for relatives who have upper digestive symptoms, and for anyone with a family history of stomach cancer.
Guideline: RACGP Australian Journal of General Practice, 2025.
Related procedures and information
Book an appointment
If you have symptoms of h. pylori and stomach ulcers, see your GP or book a consultation with gastroenterologist Dr Ali Zad on (07) 2111 2600 or request an appointment online. You can book directly; a GP referral is needed for a Medicare rebate.
Dr Zad consults and performs procedures across Brisbane and Moreton Bay: Brisbane City and Spring Hill, North Lakes, Caboolture, Everton Park, Taringa and Redcliffe and Kippa-Ring.
