H. Pylori Breath Test

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects the stomach. It's quite common and often picked up in childhood. Most people won't even realize they have it because it doesn’t always cause problems. However, for some, it can lead to issues like stomach ulcers or, rarely, stomach cancer.

Signs and Symptoms:

When H. pylori does cause symptoms, they can include:

- Stomach Pain: Often in the upper abdomen, can be burning or gnawing.
- Bloating: Feeling full after eating small amounts.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Uneasiness or actual vomiting.
- Loss of Appetite: Not feeling like eating.
- Frequent Burping: More than usual belching.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.
- Indigestion: Discomfort or pain in the stomach after eating.

H. pylori Breath Test:

The breath test is a simple procedure to check for an H. pylori infection. Here’s how it generally works:

1. Preparation: You will  be asked to fast for 8 hours and to stop PPIs (2 weeks prior), Antibiotics (4 weeks before), Pepto-Bismol (2 weeks before), H2 Blockers (ex. rantidine, famotidine- 48 hours before the test) before the test so we can ensure test accuracy. If taking the yearly panel or mid-year panel at the same time, please have the yearly panel/mid-year panels drawn first to ensure they are drawn before 10am. 

2. Initial Breath Sample: You’ll blow into a bag to provide a baseline breath sample.

3. Swallow a Solution: You’ll drink a special solution containing urea.

4. Final Breath Sample: After a short wait (~15min), you’ll blow into another bag. If H. pylori is present, the bacteria will break down the urea solution, releasing carbon dioxide that changes your breath in a measurable way.

When to Recheck:

After you’ve been treated for H. pylori, it’s advisable to do a follow-up test to ensure the infection is cleared. This recheck is usually done about 1 month after you finish treatment. This timeframe allows your stomach to heal and gives an accurate picture of whether the bacteria are gone.

This follow-up is crucial as persistent H. pylori can lead to recurring problems, so ensuring it's treated is important for your ongoing health. 

**If positive for H.Pylori, please email us a month after antibiotic regimen has been completed for a follow-up H.Pylori Test at hello@root-wellness.com