Helicobacter pylori breath test

This test detects the activity of urease by measuring carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas in air that is exhaled (breathed out). Urease is an enzyme produced by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This test is done after drinking a liquid that contains urea. It is used to help diagnose and manage a H. pylori infection such as H. pylori gastritis.

Laboratory tests may be done for many reasons. Tests are performed for routine health screenings or if a disease or toxicity is suspected. Lab tests may be used to determine if a medical condition is improving or worsening. Lab tests may also be used to measure the success or failure of a medication or treatment plan. Lab tests may be ordered for professional or legal reasons. You may need this test if you have:

• Stomach inflammation from H. pylori bacteria

Fast overnight before the test.

Tell the person doing the test if you are pregnant or breast feeding, have used antibiotics or bismuth preparations within four weeks, or have a history of gastric (stomach) conditions or surgeries.

Methods used to collect for this test vary. Depending on the method used, you may be asked to drink a liquid test meal or water containing a fixed amount of urea. Breath samples will be collected by blowing through a drinking straw into a bottle of liquid containing test solutions. Ask the healthcare worker to explain the details of this test to you.

The amount of discomfort you feel will depend on many factors, including your sensitivity to pain. Communicate how you are feeling with the person doing the test. Inform the person doing the test if you feel that you cannot continue with the test.

There are no special instructions to follow after this test.

You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. You can then discuss treatment options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.