The Correlation between H. Pylori and Chronic Hives
Exploring the Link between a Common Bacterial Infection and Persistent Urticaria
Chronic hives, medically known as chronic urticaria, are a perplexing and often frustrating condition for both patients and healthcare providers. While the most common causes are allergies, stress, and autoimmune reactions, recent research has prompted a closer look at the role of infections—particularly Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)—in persistent skin symptoms.
This interest me a lot considering I had had horrible bouts of on and off again hives on my shins for about five years. I had undergone several liver detoxes, a candida diet, and drank my celery juice religiously hoping to resolve my issue. Even though my health improved in other areas, the hives lived on.
It was not until I had undergone my own treatment for H pylori back in 2021 that my hives became merely a memory, Because I was so focused on how my anxiety was eliminated due to GT5, I never linked H pylori to my personal history with hives until I recently listened to a podcast in which Izabella Wentz, Thyroid Pharmacist, was interviewing Natallia Sanzo, Hashimoto’s Dietician, about the possible link between H pylori and chronic hives. This sparked me to research a bit more and now I want to share what i discovered with you!
In this blog post, we’ll explore the possible connection between H. pylori infection and chronic hives, and what it could mean for those seeking relief.
Understanding H. Pylori
H. pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that commonly resides in the stomach lining. It’s well-known for causing gastritis and peptic ulcers, but many people may not realize its broader impact on overall health. This bacterium is highly prevalent worldwide, and infection often goes unnoticed for years, silently affecting the digestive system and potentially triggering immune responses beyond the gut.
The most common symptom of H. pylori infection is a burning pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen. This pain often occurs when the stomach is empty, such as between meals or in the early morning hours, and may be temporarily relieved by eating food or taking antacids. Other symptoms can include bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, and frequent burping, but abdominal pain is typically the most prevalent and noticeable symptom associated with H. pylori infection.
Chronic Hives: More Than Skin Deep
Chronic hives are defined as hives that persist for more than six weeks. Standard treatments focus on antihistamines and identifying triggers, such as foods, medications, or stress. However, in many cases, the cause remains elusive, leading individuals and practitioners to consider deeper, systemic issues that could be at play.
The Connection: H. Pylori and Chronic Hives
Several studies have suggested that H. pylori infection may be linked to chronic urticaria. The proposed mechanism involves the immune system’s response to the bacterium. H. pylori can trigger the production of antibodies and inflammatory substances, which may inadvertently activate skin mast cells and cause hives.
From a holistic perspective, this connection makes sense. The gut and skin are both part of the body's complex immune network. When the gut is compromised by an infection like H. pylori, it can manifest as symptoms elsewhere in the body, including the skin. Addressing digestive health may therefore be crucial for resolving chronic hives.
A Holistic Approach to Healing
Holistic medicine emphasizes treating the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—rather than just symptoms. If you’re struggling with chronic hives and standard treatments aren’t working, here are some holistic strategies to consider:
Testing for H. Pylori: Speak with your healthcare provider about testing for H. pylori, especially if you have digestive symptoms such as bloating, indigestion, or stomach pain. A common stool test can be done.
Dietary Adjustments: Focus on anti-inflammatory foods that support gut health, such as leafy greens, the fermented food apple cider vinegar, and fiber-rich vegetables. Avoid known triggers like processed foods, gluten, dairy, alcohol, and excessive sugar.
Stress Reduction: Chronic stress can worsen both gut and skin conditions. Incorporate practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine.
Probiotics: Supporting a healthy balance of gut bacteria may help regulate immune responses and reduce inflammation. With other gut infections, such as SIBO, a probiotic is NOT introduced until the pathogen is eliminated. H pylori protocols, on the other hand, may introduce a specific strain of probiotic in much earlier.
Herbal Remedies: Some holistic practitioners recommend herbs such as licorice root, mastic gum, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice for digestive support, but always consult with a professional before starting any new supplements. Licorice root tea is not recommended to anyone on blood pressure medication, for example.
While more research is needed to fully understand the link between H. pylori and chronic hives, approaching this issue from a holistic perspective can provide new avenues for healing. By nurturing your gut health and considering the bigger picture, you may find relief from persistent hives and improve your overall well-being. If you suspect H. pylori could be a factor, set up a complimentary 20-minute Breakthrough Call.