I was diagnosed with H pylori infection and have been taking Sompraz HP for the past week as part of a 14-day course. Since starting it, I have been having continuous severe stomach pain. Is this normal with this treatment, and should I continue it or be concerned?

It is normal to have some stomach discomfort when starting treatment for H. pylori, but ongoing severe pain is unusual and should be checked. Sompraz HP has several medicines, including an acid reducer and antibiotics. Mild side effects like nausea, bloating, or loose stools can happen, but if you have severe pain that doesn?t go away, it could mean your body is irritated or not tolerating the medicine well. This isn?t always serious, but because your pain is severe and lasting, it?s important to talk to your doctor. Don?t stop the treatment on your own, since not finishing it can make the bacteria harder to treat. Contact your doctor soon so they can see if your treatment needs to be changed. In the meantime, keep taking your medicines as directed, usually after food if that?s what you were told. Try to eat light, non-spicy meals and drink plenty of water. Stay away from alcohol and foods that might upset your stomach. If your pain gets worse, or if you have vomiting, black stools, or feel weak, get medical help right away. Getting checked quickly will help you finish your treatment safely.

I have been experiencing mild lower abdominal pain for the past 10 days. I was diagnosed with stomach erosions and H. pylori (RUT positive) in December 2016, completed a 10-day Sompraz HP Kit course, and have been taking daily Sompraz since then. What treatment or medication should I take now for my symptoms?

Since your current pain is in the lower abdomen, it may not be related to your past stomach erosions or H. pylori, which typically cause upper abdominal symptoms. Additionally, taking daily esomeprazole (your acid-reducing medication) since 2016 is a very long duration and needs a medical review, as prolonged use can sometimes cause side effects. Please do not start any new self-medication. I advise consulting your doctor to investigate this new lower abdominal pain?which could be related to your intestines?and to safely evaluate if you still need daily acid suppressants. There is no need to panic, but a professional assessment is the safest step.