Urea Breath Test: Identification of Gastric Helicobacter Pylori Infection
The urea breath test (UBT) is a diagnostic tool used by doctors to detect and monitor Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a bacterium that can cause digestive disorders. Over half of the world's population carries H. pylori in their gut, and while most people do not show symptoms, those who do may experience a range of gastrointestinal issues.
Symptoms such as burning or dull pain in the stomach or abdomen, especially pain that worsens when the stomach is empty or at night, nausea and vomiting, bloating and frequent burping, loss of appetite and unintended weight loss, and recurrent heartburn or a burning sensation in the stomach or throat may prompt doctors to recommend a UBT. These symptoms often suggest gastritis or peptic ulcers potentially caused by H. pylori, and the urea breath test helps confirm the infection.
The test involves exhaling into a breath sample collection bag before and after swallowing a pill or liquid containing specially-labeled urea compounds. If the second sample contains more carbon dioxide, it may indicate an H. pylori infection. If the UBT is positive, a second test (blood test or stool test) will be required for confirmation.
It is important to note that some people may need to stop taking certain medications, such as antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, sucralfate, and antihistamines, for 2 weeks to 1 month before having a UBT. After treatment, a UBT will be recommended to ensure the bacterium has gone. If the UBT is negative, the person does not have an H. pylori infection.
The urea breath test is suitable for adults and children who can swallow the capsule whole and blow through a straw, but its safety for pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been studied extensively. Over-the-counter pain-relief medications can be used if the infection is causing pain.
H. pylori is mainly transmitted through contaminated food or water, and many people catch it from another household member. Treatment for H. pylori infection involves taking medication, often including a PPI drug, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin. In most cases, treatment is effective, but it may take more than one course of medication.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to consult a doctor. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action, which may include a urea breath test to diagnose an H. pylori infection. After treatment, you can resume your everyday activities, and the test does not affect your ability to drive.
- In addition to diagnosing H. pylori infection, the field of oncology also recognizes the respiratory issues that can arise from certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer, which may cause other respiratory symptoms like persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
- Aside from gastritis and peptic ulcers, H. pylori infection can lead to serious health-and-wellness concerns, like an increased risk of developing gastric cancer over time, a potentially life-threatening digestive-health issue.
- Science continues to explore various medical-conditions linked to H. pylori, such as certain autoimmune diseases and alterations in the gut microbiota that may contribute to conditions affecting overall health.
- To ensure comprehensive health management, it is advisable to maintain regular check-ups, employ healthy habits, and keep informed about new findings in science regarding the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems, as well as cancer prevention and treatments.
