Key point: Community clinics can perform Helicobacter pylori testing, which means patients can receive this examination at primary medical institutions such as community hospitals. The importance of this service is that it greatly facilitates the general public, making Helicobacter pylori testing no longer limited to large hospitals, lowering the barrier to seeking medical care, and improving the accessibility of medical services.

Community clinics can perform Helicobacter pylori testing, which means patients can receive this examination at primary medical institutions such as community hospitals. The importance of this service is that it greatly facilitates the general public, making Helicobacter pylori testing no longer limited to large hospitals, lowering the barrier to seeking medical care, and improving the accessibility of medical services.

Community clinics typically use noninvasive methods to test for Helicobacter pylori, such as the carbon-13 or carbon-14 breath test. These tests are not only accurate but also easy to perform; patients do not need hospitalization and can complete the necessary steps in the outpatient setting. The principle behind the test is that a urea capsule labeled with a carbon isotope is swallowed; if H. pylori is present, it breaks down the urea and releases carbon dioxide, and the labeled carbon dioxide is then detected by the breath test to determine infection.

Interpreting test results requires professional guidance from a physician. Generally, if the test value exceeds a certain threshold— for example, in the carbon-14 breath test, a value over 100 DPM, or in the carbon-13 breath test, a change greater than 4‰—this may indicate H. pylori infection. It is important to note that results are not absolute and can sometimes be influenced by other factors, such as abnormal gastric acid secretion or recent use of antibiotics. Patients should remain rational when faced with test results, avoiding undue panic or dismissal, and should develop an appropriate treatment plan under their doctor's guidance based on their individual situation.

【Practical tip:】

1. Before undergoing H. pylori testing, follow your doctor's instructions; you may need to avoid certain foods or medications to ensure the accuracy of the test results.

2. If the test result is positive, discuss possible treatment options with your doctor, including the types of medications and the duration of therapy.

3. After testing, monitor whether your symptoms improve and have regular follow-ups to assess the treatment’s effectiveness.

4. During treatment, maintain good lifestyle habits, such as regular eating patterns and avoiding smoking and alcohol, which can help improve treatment outcomes.