Your doctor has requested you to take this test to determine if you have a bacterium called helicobacter pylori (H.Pylori) which is sometimes found in the stomach.
It is important that you inform your doctor of any medical condition that you may think will interfere with the test
Test procedure
It is important that you follow the instructions in order to receive a correct test result:
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You must fast overnight before the test. You may drink water.
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Do not have breakfast, coffee, tea, fruit, biscuits.
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Do not take the following medication before the test:
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Antibiotics - eg penicillin - 28 days before the test
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Proton Pump Inhibitors - eg Omeprazole, Lansoprazole - 15 days before the test
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Antacids white medicine - eg Gaviscon, Malox - 12 hours before the test
The test is completed within 10 minutes using the following procedure:
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You be asked to provide two breath samples into two blue topped test tubes. The stopper is unscrewed from the tube. Breathe gently through the straw and slowly pull out the straw while breathing into the tube. As soon as the straw is withdrawn the cap is immediately placed on the tube. It is not necessary to blow hard into the tubes - please breathe normally. The procedure is then repeated with the same straw into the second blue topped tube. The straw will then be discarded.
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You will then be asked to swallow a tablet containing urea with a glass of water.
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Wait for 10 minutes in an upright position (either standing or sitting)
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After 10 minutes, you will be required to collect a further two breath samples in the red topped tubes using the same procedure as above. A second straw will be provided for these samples.
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Your doctor who requested the test will inform you of the result of your test.
Side effects
Like any medications, the urea tablet may rarely cause some side effects - e.g. stomach discomfort and fatigue.
If you experience any unusual or unexpected symptoms talk to your doctor. The test will not affect your ability to drive or use machinery.
