HELICOBACTER PYLORI UREA BREATH TEST

Helicobacter Pylori is a very common infection (present in up to 50% of the population) that is thought to be a factor in the development of stomach and duodenal ulcers (peptic ulcers). It is a bacterium that causes chronic gastritis (inflammation) of the stomach lining. Symptoms of peptic ulcers include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain/discomfort. Some ulcers may bleed which can cause fatigue.

The bacteria can survive because it can penetrate the stomach lining and produce by-products that neutralise the gastric acid around it, thereby creating a protective environment. When a Helicobacter Pylori breath test is performed, the tablet that is consumed contains Urea. The bacteria breaks this Urea down releasing a carbon atom. The breath test can measure this carbon for the presence of Helicobacter Pylori through the collection of breath samples which are then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

A blood test can only detect antibodies to Helicobacter Pylori and therefore cannot distinguish between a previous infection and a current one as the antibodies can remain in your body for some time. A blood test cannot be used to determine if your Helicobacter Pylori has been eradicated following treatment [Medline Plus]. Post treatment a Helicobacter Pylori Breath Test or Stool Antigen test is recommended.

If you are positive for Helicobacter Pylori, you will need to see your G.P who may prescribe you a combination of antibiotics (usually two antibiotics) and an acid reducing tablet (Proton Pump Inhibitor). This treatment is called triple therapy. Sometimes the Helicobacter Pylori infection is not cured with the first triple therapy treatment. To see if the bacterial infection has been successfully eradicated, a second breath test may be performed at least 30 days following treatment.

Test Duration: Up to 20 minutes

Testing Age: Over 16 years

Referral: GP or Consultant referral required

Results: Approx 7 working days

Test Fee: €100

Book your appointment today. Click the button below to view our booking page.

For patients who are unable to travel to clinic a Helicobacter Pylori Breath home testing kit is also available. Please ensure we have received your referral prior to placing your order.

If you have completed your Helicobacter Pylori Breath Home test, please use the button below to complete your Consultation & Consent form.

A pre-procedure instruction sheet can be viewed by clicking the download button below. This should be viewed and adhered to upon booking your appointment to ensure accurate results.

Patients should not undertake the Helicobacter Pylori Breath Test if there is a
documented or suspected gastric infection or atrophic gastritis, as this may interfere with the Helicobacter Pylori Breath Test.