I posted this on Facebook this morning:
So, I haven’t really said anything, but I’ve been kinda sick for the past few months. I have been having diarrhea constantly (sometimes with blood), bloating, stomach pain, weight loss, heart burn and a host of other stomach problems.
I went to the doctor and had an upper GI performed, an ultrasound, and lots of blood work. The doctor was thinking I had gallstones, Celiac disease, or a thyroid problem.
It turned out, through blood work, that I have a bacterial infection in my stomach that irritates the esophagus and stomach and causes ulcers. The bacteria I’m infected with is common in third world countries that have poor sanitation, unclean water, and close living quarters. I’m not sure how I got it or if I’ll ever know. I do know that it is contagious.
The good news is that I can take medicine to hopefully heal this infection and cure the ulcers in my stomach. I learned sometimes the antibiotics don’t cure the infection the first time, though.
Tomorrow I start taking a triple therapy PrevPac for two weeks.
I’m going to be taking eight pills a day–four in the morning and four in the evening–with some uncomfortable side effects.
Some of the side effects are diarrhea, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and abnormal taste. I’m kind of sick of diarrhea at this point, but if this medicine heals me, I’m going to deal with it.
My doctor is also having me have an endoscopy (a procedure where they look at your esophagus and stomach by a long tube inserted in your throat) to check if the medicine eliminates the infection.
I’m happy to know what has been causing all of the pain and I’m very blessed that this condition can be treated and that I live in a country that medication is readily available and doctors abound. I fully trust that God is going to take care of me, whatever happens.
The Lord is my rock, and my safe place, and the One Who takes me out of trouble. My God is my rock in Whom I am safe. He is my safe-covering, my saving strength, and my strong tower. Psalm 18:2
Edited to add: If you want to talk to me about my experience with H. Pylori and the medicine I took, please feel free to email me at alliezottola(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks!
You can find my other posts about H.Pylori below:
Stomach Update
Stomach Update #2
Endoscopy Results
My Experience with H.Pylori
Living My Full Life 
oh my goodness Allie I am so sorry! This seriously is terrible but I know you will get through. that medicine will be tough, I know a friend had to take it and it really wiped her out. Just make sure you let yourself relax and recover because your body will be working on overdrive. I have had an endoscopy and it is not bad at all so don’t worry about that. You will be in my prayers lovely!
I’m so sorry you have been having health problems my dear. I’m sure these last few months have been beyond frustrated and have tested your strength, and I am so happy you have a possible solution! Of course prayers will be sent your way ❤
Oh wow, really sorry to read about all of that! But, I don’t think it’s wrong you didn’t tell the blog world about it. There’s no reason you have to tell your friends everything, or even that you had to post it on facebook. Medical issues are pretty personal and I completely understand. Good luck with the endoscopy and all the medicines, but I’m glad the doctors figured out what was wrong and are treating it!
I am so sorry to hear that you have been suffering like that! I will keep you in my thoughts, and I hope the antibiotics don’t give you as much trouble as they say they might. Hugs!
I had that, twice! But only because the dr didn’t give me the antibiotics the first time because there was a screw up. I ended up in the hospital both times with it too – it was terrible, so I feel your pain. MAKE SURE you take the pills with food or they will make you feel like you’re dying.
I never had any other symptoms though, besides nausea when I didn’t take them with food. I also had my stomach scoped twice, which was super fun (not) but it doesn’t hurt or anything.
Oh girl, I am so sorry you’ve had to deal with this, but I am so glad that you know what’s going on and are able to treat it!!
David has had an endoscopy and declared it the *worst* procedure he’s ever gone through. Prayers for your health & a quick recovery! Xoxo
trust me, i had something very similar. You can always talk to me about this. Prayers!
Hey Allie! While I didn’t have h-pylori – back in the spring I was having my terrible stomach pains – which ended up being a stomach COVERED in ulcers. My doctor said it was one of the worst cases he has ever seen(as far as quantity goes.. with very little of my stomach not covered) – especially for someone in their 20s.
They tested me for h-pylori – which came back negative. But I can definitely related to how you are feeling.. and how you felt (the uncertainty of what was going on with you body.. if it would ever stop.. not even remembering what normal feels like… I could go on forever).
I think it is great that you are having the endoscopy so the dr can see what the lining of your stomach is like. I am glad that you are on the necessary meds for the h-pylori. If you end up taking something for ulcers.. I can’t recommend nexium enough. It did (and still does) wonders for me.
There are also a number of dietary changes you can make to help prevent the pain. If you ever want to chat about them.. let me know!
Allie I am so sorry you’re having to go through all this! I thought something was wrong because I definitely noticed a significant weight loss in your pictures…but I didn’t want to say anything. Thank god the doctors figured out what it was! Having something so rare like that sounds scary but I am sure everything will be fine now that you know what’s causing it and have the proper medication. Definitely thinking of you girl! I hope you recover soon! Keep us updated on how you’re doing! We’re all thinking of you!
oh no! Allie, I am so sorry you have been sick! Sounds awful! I remember when I was in India and I had nonstop diarrhea and stomach pains…probably related to drinking unclean water. Hope everything clears up quickly! I’ll be sending you positive thoughts! ❤
wow, that’s crazy! but, i’m so glad you finally have a diagnosis and that you’re able to get on your way to recovery!
Wow, that is insane. I’m sorry to hear about all of it, but so happy for you in that you have answers. You will make it through! I’ll be thinking of you!
I’m so happy they might have found the cause of the problem! Those lovely scientists 🙂 Hope you’re back to good soon!!!
Oh Allie, I’m so sorry to hear about this. But looking on the bright side I’m thankful the doctor’s were finally able to figure out what’s been going on with your body and you can now start the healing process. I’ll be sending prayers you way girl!
Allie! I’m so sad to hear this, but glad you finally got a diagnosis. You don’t have the weight to lose! Hope you’re back to 100% soon. I’m thinking about you. 🙂
Holy moly I am so sorry to hear about this Allie! But thank goodness you know what it is and can start doing something about it! Living in fear and not knowing what the heck is wrong is just the worst thing.. I am thinking about you and wish you the best! Get well soon 🙂
I’m so sorry, girl! But glad you found out what’s going on. Prayers and virtual hugs!
praying for a quick recovery for you girlie!! That is so scary but I am glad you found out what the problem was.
Oh, I’m so sorry for you. I pray you are feeling much better soon. ❤
Oh dear, I am so sorry to read this! I hope you get better quickly, and I will be keeping you in my prayers!