Quality of life and Helicobacter pylori eradication

Background: It has convincingly been shown that relapses of duodenal ulcers are significantly reduced after eradication of Helicobacter pylori. The aim of this study was to examine the long-term effect of bacteria eradication on Quality of Life (QOL) and subjective somatic symptoms. Methods: Seventy-four Helicobacter pylori-positive patients with recurrent duodenal ulcer disease were treated with triple treatment. Relapses, H. pylori status, QOL and subjective somatic symptoms were registered at yearly intervals for 4 years. Results: Preliminary results show that the patients were more satisfied with the healthcare system, bad better sexual relationships and less psychological distress up to 3 years after eradication of the bacteria. They also had fewer symptoms of exhaustion and less stomach discomfort than before triple treatment. Conclusion: Long-term follow-up of patients after eradication of H. pylori shows that QOL is improved and feeling of exhaustion and stomach discomfort reduced.