Can H Pylori be harming your body without any signs or symptoms?

Question

Around 25% of the population in the Western world is infected, but only a few develop symptoms. For those who don't, could it slowly cause health deterioration without exhibiting symptoms? What are the routes of transmission of this bacterium besides oral-fecal? Could it be transmitted as simply as sneezing or coughing?

Answer 1

Without treatment H. pylori does not go away.  It is transmitted via oral-oral, oral-gastric, and most commonly oral-fecal. In don't think there is evidence that it transmitted via air.  I know they can find the bacteria in tooth plaque and saliva. I don't know about mucus.

It is mostly asymptomatic. Some experts think H. pylori can promote esophogeal cancer, and can cause acid reflux.  The elderly, or immunocompromised are more likely to experience an acute (not long term) infection from it.  

Hope this helps!