How Actress Jemimah battled H. pylori from food poisoning for three year…here’s how to avoid it
Photo Credit: Instagram/Jemimah Osunde
Battling with health issues can be a depressing thing especially when it’s something you could have avoided. Nigerian Nollywood diva, actress Jemimah Osunde shared on her media handle yesterday how she got H. Pylori from food served on set during the execution of a movie role.
The actress said she had got this call for a role in Ibadan when she went there, she was served food as set curtsey which she ate. Since then, she has been battling with an ulcer for three years. She penned her regret over taking such a movie role.
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She said, “My stomach is my greatest op. Actyally my entire GIT. SMH. I’ve never regretted anything the way I regret taking that job and going with them to Ibadan to shoot under their c.e. Getting h.pylori from Set Food and the aftermath of GERD (Chronic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) has left me fighting for my life for the last 3 years. The past month has been something. sigh.”
What is H. pylori and its symptoms?
Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) is a type of bacteria that affects the lining of the stomach. It is obtained from contaminated food or water, or close contact with the saliva, vomit, or stool of an infected person. It is one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide and if left untreated, can cause various stomach-related issues, including ulcers and, in some cases, an increased risk of stomach cancer.
Symptoms include digestive issues like Abdominal pain (especially when the stomach is empty or at night), nausea (vomiting), bloating, frequent burping, loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss. It could also be more complicated when it results in peptic ulcers (burning or gnawing stomach pain, which may improve with eating but worsen afterward). Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining, leading to discomfort or pain). Stomach bleeding (vomiting blood appears red or like coffee grounds and passing black, tarry stools)
How to avoid it
Avoid unsafe foods
Avoid consuming food or water from unreliable or unhygienic sources. Ensure your food is well cooked and your water is well filtered before you consume.
Observe good hygiene
Always wash your hands and ensure your environment is safe and clean from bacteria.
Avoid sharing eating utensils
Do not share utensils, plates, cups, or straws, especially with someone who is infected.
Be cautious when traveling
In areas where sanitation is poor, avoid street food, ice, or unbottled water.
Stick to well-cooked meals and sealed beverages.
Get immediate treatment
Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics and medications to reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
If you suspect H. pylori infection, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
H. Pylori can be very painful and causes a lot of discomfort. It can also affect your mental health because you might have to avoid some meals at some point. And always ensure to go for a medical check-up every three months.