What is a hydrogen breath test?
There are multiple reasons a hydrogen breath test is recommended by your Tulsa, OK GI provider. The test can be used to:
- Detect the presence of an overgrowth of hydrogen-producing bacteria in your colon
- Identify malabsorption and digestion issues, including lactose, sucrose, fructose, and sorbitol intolerance
- Identify problems with the passage of food through your bowel
The bacteria in your colon digest sugars and carbohydrates and use them as fuel. During this process, some of the sugars and carbohydrates are converted into gases, most commonly hydrogen. Some of this hydrogen is eliminated in your breath.
In a healthy digestive system, sugars and carbohydrates are predominantly digested and absorbed in the small intestine. Very little reaches the colon, so only small amounts of gas are produced by the bacteria there. If larger amounts of sugar or carbohydrates reach the colon or hydrogen-producing bacteria over-populate the colon, larger amounts of gas are formed. If you suspect that you could benefit from a hydrogen breath test, request a consultation at your nearest Adult Gastroenterology Associates location.
Who needs a hydrogen breath test?
A hydrogen breath test may be recommended for you if your Adult Gastroenterology Associates provider suspects that the GI symptoms you are experiencing, such as bloating or abdominal pain, could be a sign of a larger GI issue. They could suspect a carbohydrate or sugar intolerance, overly rapid passage of food through your bowel, or bacterial overgrowth in your colon.
You would not be a suitable candidate for a hydrogen breath test if you have postprandial hypoglycemia (low blood sugar after eating) of unknown cause. Fructose must not be used in your test if hereditary fructose intolerance is suspected.
What should I expect during my hydrogen breath test?
The hydrogen breath test will last a few hours. You will be asked to breathe into a breath collection bag at the beginning of the test and then given a sugar solution to drink. You will then have to give samples of your breath every 15 minutes.
You will be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before the test and will have to follow a special diet a day or two before the test. Your provider could recommend you avoid or stop taking certain medications for a period of time beforehand, including antibiotics. Your Tulsa, OK GI provider will discuss instructions for you to follow prior to your breath test at your consultation.
