What Is H. Pylori?

H. pylori is an abbreviation for Helicobacter pylori, also previously known as Campylobacter pylori, a bacteria of the stomach that plays a role in the development of stomach ulcers. H. pylori accomplishes this by infiltrating and weakening the stomach lining, making it vulnerable to gastric acids, according to WebMD.
WebMD explains that H. pylori can also cause stomach inflammation and stomach cancer. This bacteria is spread from person to person by sharing eating utensils, cups and other items that go in the mouth. The most common symptoms of H. pylori are those associated with ulcers, as most people with this bacteria do not have any symptoms at all, according to Mayo Clinic, unless they develop stomach ulcers.