Is it normal to be negative for Helicobacter pylori?

A negative result for helicobacter pylori is considered normal, indicating that the bacterial infection has not been detected in the stomach. Helicobacter pylori is one of the main pathogens causing gastritis and gastric ulcers, and a negative result usually indicates that there is no risk of such infections. A negative Helicobacter pylori test indicates that the gastric mucosa has not been colonized by the bacteria and the gastrointestinal function is in a relatively healthy state. The commonly used detection methods currently include carbon-13 or carbon-14 breath test, serum antibody detection, fecal antigen detection, and rapid urease test in gastroscopy examination. The accuracy of negative results is related to the timing of testing, and it is necessary to ensure that no antibiotics, bismuth agents, or proton pump inhibitors have been taken within the month before testing, as these drugs may cause false negatives. In a negative state, it is still necessary to maintain dietary hygiene, avoid sharing utensils or feeding mouth to mouth, and reduce the probability of future infection.

In rare cases, false negative results may occur, which are more common in situations such as non-standard drug withdrawal before testing, recent use of acid suppressants, or low bacterial load. Patients with gastric mucosal atrophy or intestinal metaplasia may experience spontaneous bacterial clearance due to reduced gastric acid secretion, and negative results may mask a history of previous infections. For those who repeatedly experience symptoms such as stomach pain and acid reflux but test negative, it is recommended to evaluate whether there are other stomach diseases by combining gastroscopy.

Pay attention to the serving of individual dishes system in daily life, avoid raw and pickled food, and use public chopsticks when dining together. Regular follow-up is still necessary for high-risk individuals, especially those with a family history of gastric cancer or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. If symptoms such as persistent upper abdominal discomfort, vomiting blood, and black stools occur, medical attention should be sought in a timely manner. Negative test results cannot completely rule out other digestive system diseases.