Before Your H. Pylori Breath Test

Several considerations must be taken in the days before your H. pylori breath test. You should be finished with all antibiotics and Pepto Bismol one month before the test. The following medications should be stopped two weeks prior to unless otherwise specified by your physician:

• Nexium

• Prilosec (Omeprazole)

• Prevacid (Lansoprazole)

• Aciphex

• Dexilant

• Protonix (Pantoprazole)

• Carafate

You should not stop taking any medications without first speaking to your doctor. Our physicians will gladly answer any questions you have about preparation before the test.

The Day of Your Scheduled H. Pylori Breath Test

On the day of your scheduled appointment, you should not have anything to eat or drink six hours before the test. Ahead of the breath test, your physician will explain the steps of the procedure and answer any questions you may have. An H. pylori breath test involves exhaling into a balloon-like bag after drinking a solution that contains urea. The amount of carbon dioxide in the breath samples is measured to determine if an H. pylori infection is present. The breath testing process usually lasts around 15 to 30 minutes.

After Your H. Pylori Breath Test

After your breath test is complete, the samples of your breath will be sent to a laboratory where they will be analyzed. Results are often available within 24 to 48 hours and will be conveyed to you via your physician. If the results come back positive for an H. pylori infection, antibiotics may be needed. If this is the case, the breath test will be repeated after the antibiotics are used to ensure that the infection is no longer present. You can resume your normal activities right away, and there are no restrictions following a breath tes.

BREATH TEST