Urea Breath Test
The urea breath test is used to detect Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a type of bacteria that may infect the stomach and is a main cause of ulcers in both the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
Description
The urea breath test is used to detect Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a type of bacteria that may infect the stomach and is a main cause of ulcers in both the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
H. pylori produces an enzyme called urease, which breaks urea down into ammonia and carbon dioxide. During the test, a tablet containing urea is swallowed and the amount of exhaled carbon dioxide is measured. This indicates the presence of H. pylori in the stomach.
What is H. pylori?
H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) is a bacteria that infects your stomach or duodenum (first part of the small intestine). H. pylori bacteria can increase your risk of developing:
- Gastritis (an inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining).
- Peptic ulcer disease (which is either duodenal or gastric/stomach ulcers).
- Stomach (gastric) cancer.
H. pylori is a major cause of peptic ulcer. The bacteria decreases the stomach’s protective mucus. This makes it easier for the stomach to be damaged from digestive acids.
Who gets H. pylori infections?
H. pylori infections are very common. About 50% of the world’s population is infected. However, most people never have symptoms.
When should I get a H. pylori breath test?
See your healthcare provider if you have pain in your digestive tract or symptoms of a peptic ulcer including:
- Gnawing or burning pain in your middle or upper stomach between meals or at night.
- Pain that comes and goes if you eat something or take an antacid.
- Bloating.
- Heartburn.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Weight loss.
How Do I Prepare for a Urea Breath Test?
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, have a lung or heart condition or any other disease, or if you are allergic to any medications.
- Do not take any antibiotics for at least 4 weeks before the test.
- Do not take any proton pump inhibitors (Aciphex, Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix) or Pepto-Bismol for at least 2 weeks before the test.
- Take only the medications approved by your doctor the day of the procedure. Take them only with a small sip of water if it is within four hours of the procedure. Do not discontinue any medication without first consulting with your primary or referring doctor.
- Do not eat or drink anything (including water) for four hours before the procedure.
