What is the Hydrogen Breath Test?
Hydrogen Breath Testing is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to detect various gastrointestinal disorders, particularly those related to carbohydrate malabsorption. The test we offer at UME Health can detect SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth) but other tests can also detect irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and lactose intolerance. During the test, patients consume a specific substrate and then breathe into a device at regular intervals to measure the levels of hydrogen and methane gases in their breath.
How does the Hydrogen Breath Test Work?
Feelings of indigestion and bloating are often caused by a movement of gas including hydrogen moving through the digestive system. When carbohydrates are not properly absorbed in the small intestine, they reach the colon where bacteria ferment them, producing hydrogen and methane gases. These gases are then absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually exhaled through the lungs. By measuring the levels of these gases, healthcare providers can assess the extent of carbohydrate malabsorption and diagnose conditions such as bacterial overgrowth.
What is the Hydrogen Breath Test used for?
Hydrogen Breath Testing plays a crucial role in diagnosing gastrointestinal disorders, allowing healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans to individual patients' needs. By identifying specific carbohydrate intolerances or bacterial overgrowth, patients can make dietary adjustments and receive targeted therapies to alleviate their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
What does a Hydrogen Breath Test look for?
A hydrogen breath test is primarily used to diagnose gastrointestinal disorders related to carbohydrate malabsorption. The hydrogen breath test we provide looks out for hydrogen levels in the breath and SIBO. SIBO occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, leading to symptoms similar to other gastrointestinal disorders, such as bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. The bacteria ferment carbohydrates in the small intestine, producing hydrogen and other gases that can be detected in the breath.
How do I prepare for the Hydrogen Breath Test?
One month before: You’ll be asked to stop taking antibiotics or any antimicrobial treatment before undertaking the test.
One week before: Please avoid probiotics, laxatives or fibre supplements.
One day before: You’ll be asked to limit your diet to only low-fibre, easily digested foods.
Foods to avoid:
- Bran, oats and wheat-based cereals
- Coarse breads (wholegrain, granary and soft grain varieties)
- Dairy products (i.e. milk, cheese, ice-cream, yoghurt and butter)
- Beans and high fibre vegetables and their skins (i.e. potatoes, lentils, peas, carrots, broccoli, cabbage and celery)
- Fresh and dried fruits
- Wholegrain breakfast cereals, nuts and seeds
- Starches except for boiled white rice (do not eat pasta or brown rice)
- Herbs and spices
- Food and drinks containing fructose
- Alcoholic beverages
Foods you can eat:
Chicken, fish, turkey, beef, lamb, pork, ham, eggs, tofu, black/green tea (non-herbal) and black coffee, plain boiled white rice, tomato (not skins), breads (white, low fibre and gluten-free), jelly and jam (no artificial sweeteners).
12 hours before the test: You must fast for at least 12 hours before, only drinking water during this time. You must maintain the fast for the whole duration of the test.
On the day of the test: You’ll also be asked to avoid exercising or sleeping within 1 hour before the test and for the whole duration of the test. Do not smoke (including e-cigarettes and vaping) on the day of the test.
How does it work?
Self-Pay Options
We offer self-payment options, and we can provide you with a breakdown of the expenses linked to your treatment.
Fast Scans and Results
We offer exclusive consultations every day at our specialised diagnostic facility and results of scans will be reported and delivered within 2 days.
Local GP Available
In case you're in need of immediate private GP attention, UME Health provides expedited services for the same purpose.
Friendly and Welcoming Staff
At our clinic, we take pride in our friendly and welcoming staff. We want our patients to feel welcome and cared for.
Hydrogen Breath Test FAQs
Welcome to our FAQ section on cardiology! We understand that patients often have questions and concerns about their heart health, so we have carefully selected a range of commonly asked questions related to cardiology. Whether you're curious about symptoms, treatments, or preventive measures, this section below is designed to help you find comprehensive answers to your queries. Our aim is to provide valuable information and address any concerns you may have, empowering you to make informed decisions about your cardiovascular health. Explore the FAQ section below to find the answers you're looking for regarding all things cardiology.
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