Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) UREA Breath Test

What is the purpose of this test?

The Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) Urea Breath Test is a medical test used to check for the presence of H. pylori bacteria in the stomach. These bacteria can cause stomach ulcers and other digestive problems. The H. pylori Urea Breath Test is a safe and accurate diagnostic tool that can help detect the presence of H. pylori bacteria. It is preferred over other diagnostic methods, which are more invasive and require anesthesia. The test works by having the patient drink a solution containing urea and then measuring the amount of carbon dioxide in their breath. If H. pylori are present in the stomach, they will convert the urea into carbon dioxide, which can then be detected in the patient's breath. 

The test is done in a medical facility by a healthcare professional. The patient must not eat or drink anything for at least 1 hour before the test. During the test, the patient is asked to blow into a small device that measures the amount of carbon dioxide in their breath. If the test is positive for H. pylori, the patient will be prescribed antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria from their system. In conclusion, the H. pylori Urea Breath Test is a safe and accurate way of detecting the presence of H. pylori bacteria in the stomach. It is a non-invasive alternative to more invasive procedures and can be used to diagnose and treat H. pylori infection.

Who would benefit from this test?

The H. pylori Urea Breath Test would be beneficial to individuals with the following conditions:

• Persistent stomach pain or discomfort
• A history of peptic ulcers 
• Undergoing long-term NSAID therapy
• Have undergone previous treatment for H. pylori infection 
• A family history of stomach cancer
• Unexplained symptoms of indigestion, bloating, or nausea

What do my results indicate?

The H. pylori Urea Breath Test is a diagnostic tool used to detect the presence of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori in the stomach. A positive result indicates that the bacteria are present, while a negative result indicates that they are not. If left untreated, H. pylori infection can lead to several health problems, including ulcers and stomach cancer. Therefore, it's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions if you receive a positive result.

When should I order an H. pylori Urea Breath Test?

Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to an H. pylori infection. Common signs or symptoms of an H. pylori infection include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Bloating
• Frequent burping
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Bad breath
• Dark or tarry stools
• Excessive sweating
• Low red blood cell count (anemia)