Key Takeaways:
- The urea breath test is a safe, non-invasive test to identify Helicobacter pylori infection in the stomach.
- You need to fast for at least 6 hours before the test.
- You can brush your teeth before the test, but don’t swallow toothpaste and water.
- Result timing may vary depending on where you are getting your urea breath test done.
- There are no side effects of the urea breath test, but some people may experience discomfort when swallowing the urea solution.
Urea Breath Test
The Urea Breath Test is a non-invasive procedure designed to identify Helicobacter pylori infection in the stomach by ingesting a urea solution, which is used to measure carbon dioxide levels in the breath.
Urea Breath Test Preparation
If you're attending a Pathology Glenroy collection centre for your test, follow all fasting and medication instructions provided by your doctor or pathology provider to help ensure accurate results. Urea breath test procedure includes:
- You need to fast (no liquids or food) for at least 6 hours before the test.
- The test can be conducted at any time of the day, and may take anywhere between 10 and 15 minutes.
- You will be asked to swallow a capsule consisting of urea (carbon 14) on commencement of the test.
- At the end of the test, you will be required to blow into a special breath collection balloon that is sent to the laboratory for analysis.
- There will be no restrictions on physical activities before or during the test.
- No eating or smoking during the test.
This test is not ideal for children, pregnant, or lactating women.
Can I Brush My Teeth Before Urea Breath Test?
Yes, you can. Brushing your teeth before a urea breath test is allowed, and it may be beneficial. Remember not to swallow toothpaste or large amounts of water. According to a study, the carbon-14 urea breath test, brushing your teeth before the test can reduce ambiguous results, such as removing urease-producing bacteria in the mouth.
Urea Breath Test Instructions
Typical instructions for the urea breath test include the following. Your healthcare provider or laboratory may have different instructions, so follow their instructions if they differ:
Before the test
- Fast for a minimum of 6 hours before the test.
- Avoid smoking before or during the test.
- You may be allowed to brush your teeth, but do not swallow toothpaste or water.
- Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
- If you are taking medications, inform your doctor.
Medication restrictions
Certain medications may affect test accuracy:
- Antibiotics: If you are about to go through a urea breath test, then stop taking antibiotics at least 4 weeks prior to the test.
- Bismuth-containing medications (such as Pepto-Bismol): Stop at least 2–4 weeks before the test.
- H2 receptor blockers (such as Famotidine): Your provider may advise stopping these for up to 24–48 hours before the test.
During the test
- You will provide a baseline breath sample.
- You’ll be asked to swallow a capsule or drink containing urea.
- After waiting the required time, you will provide another breath sample.
- The test usually takes 10–30 minutes.
After the test
- Once the test is done, you can eat, drink, and resume normal activities immediately unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Urea Breath Test Results Time
When your urea breath test report may be available: In a typical lab, this can be from 1-3 days. Some clinics or hospitals will give the result back on the same day or within 24 hours, if the testing is conducted in-house. If the sample is sent to another lab, it can take between 3 and 5 business days to come back to the provider, who will give you the results and advice.
Urea Breath Test Side Effects
A urea breath test is safe and harmless, and the effects usually pose no harm to anyone. In general, the vast majority of test patients suffer no pain from the test and immediately go back to their usual lives. Possible effects of the test are as follows:
- Mild nausea after swallowing the urea solution.
- Stomach discomfort or temporary bloating in rare cases.
- Unpleasant taste if a liquid solution is used.
Conclusion
If you want to get your urea breath test done, you can consult with GP Glenroy. For more information about the test, discuss with your doctor at Magnus Medical Centre.
