Hydrogen Breath Test
The hydrogen breath test is a simple, non-invasive test used to diagnose lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorption, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) by measuring hydrogen and methane gases in your breath.
Understanding Hydrogen Breath Test
A hydrogen breath test is a simple, non-invasive test used to help evaluate certain digestive problems, including lactose intolerance, fructose intolerance, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. During the test, you drink a specific sugar solution, and breath samples are collected over time to measure hydrogen and sometimes methane levels. Providers describe hydrogen breath testing as a test that measures gas levels in exhaled breath to help diagnose digestive problems such as SIBO and lactose intolerance.
This test may be recommended for patients with bloating, gas, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, or symptoms that suggest carbohydrate malabsorption or bacterial overgrowth. Preparation is important because diet, medications, antibiotics, and fasting status can affect the accuracy of results. Your provider will give specific instructions before the test and review the results to determine the next step in treatment.
What to Expect
We Walk You Through Every Step So You Feel Prepared, Informed, And Confident.
Before Your Test
- Follow a restricted diet the day before (white rice, plain chicken, etc.)
- Fast overnight for at least 12 hours
- Avoid antibiotics for 4 weeks prior
- Avoid smoking and vigorous exercise the morning of
During the Test
- Provide a baseline breath sample
- Drink the prescribed sugar solution (lactulose, lactose, or fructose)
- Breathe into the collection device every 15-20 minutes
- Remain seated and relaxed during the test
After Your Test
- Resume normal eating and activities immediately
- You may experience mild bloating or gas
- Results are typically reviewed within a few days
- Your doctor will discuss findings and treatment plan
Conditions We Address
This Procedure May Be Recommended If You Are Experiencing Any Of The Following Conditions.
Lactose Intolerance
Confirm Inability To Digest Lactose, The Sugar Found In Dairy Products.
Fructose Malabsorption
Diagnose Difficulty Absorbing Fructose From Fruits And Sweeteners.
SIBO
Detect Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth Causing Chronic Bloating And Diarrhea.
Chronic Bloating
Identify The Underlying Cause Of Persistent Abdominal Bloating And Distension.
Unexplained Diarrhea
Evaluate Chronic Diarrhea That Hasn't Responded To Standard Treatments.
IBS Evaluation
Rule Out SIBO And Food Intolerances As Contributors To IBS Symptoms.
Why Choose Digestive Care
Decades Of Expertise, Advanced Technology, And A Patient-First Approach.
Completely Non-Invasive
No needles, no sedation, no discomfort. Just breathe into a device while relaxing in our comfortable office.
Accurate Diagnosis
Breath Testing Is Clinically Validated And Provides Clear, Objective Data To Guide Your Treatment Plan.
Multiple Conditions Tested
We Offer Hydrogen Breath Testing For Lactose, Fructose, And Lactulose To Comprehensively Evaluate Your Digestive Function.
Results & Follow-Up Care
Preliminary findings may be reviewed after the procedure, with a follow-up visit recommended once pathology results are available to discuss detailed results and next steps.
Personalized Treatment
Once We Identify The Cause Of Your Symptoms, Your Doctor Will Create A Tailored Dietary And Treatment Plan.
Comfortable Environment
Relax In Our Dedicated Testing Area With Reading Materials And Refreshments Available After The Test.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does The Hydrogen Breath Test Feel Like?
The test is painless and non-invasive. You simply drink a small amount of sugar solution and breathe into a tube at regular intervals. Some patients experience mild bloating during the test.
How Should I Prepare For The Test?
Follow a restricted diet the day before (plain rice, baked chicken, water), fast overnight for 12 hours, and avoid antibiotics for 4 weeks before the test.
How Long Does The Test Take?
The test typically takes 2-3 hours from start to finish. Plan to spend the morning at our office.
Can Children Take The Hydrogen Breath Test?
Yes, the test is safe for children and is commonly used to diagnose lactose intolerance in pediatric patients.
What If The Test Comes Back Positive?
A positive result helps your doctor create a targeted treatment plan, which may include dietary modifications, probiotics, or antibiotics depending on the specific diagnosis.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Our team is here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you take the next step toward better digestive health.