Hydrogen Breath Tests at DRHC Dubai Gastroenterology Clinic

What is a Hydrogen Breath Test?

A Hydrogen Breath Test (HBT) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that detects conditions affecting digestion and gut health. It helps identify problems such as lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorption, and bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine (SIBO) by measuring hydrogen and methane levels in the breath after consuming specific test substances.

Why is a Hydrogen Breath Test Performed?

A Hydrogen Breath Test is recommended for patients experiencing chronic digestive issues such as:

• Bloating and Gas
• Diarrhea or Constipation
• Abdominal Pain and Cramping
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Symptoms

Condition Diagnosed with Hydrogen Breath Test

1. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) – Excessive bacteria in the small intestine can cause bloating, diarrhea, and malabsorption of nutrients.
2. Lactose Intolerance – The body's inability to digest lactose, leads to bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming dairy.
3. Fructose Malabsorption – Poor absorption of fructose from foods like fruits, honey, and processed sweets, leading to digestive discomfort.
4. Sucrose Intolerance – An inability to digest sugar, causing gastrointestinal symptoms.

How Does the Hydrogen Breath Test Work?

1. Preparation: Patients follow a strict diet for 12-24 hours before the test, avoiding foods that could interfere with results.
2. Baseline Breath Sample: The patient blows into a collection device to record initial hydrogen and methane levels.
3. Test Substance Ingestion: The patient drinks a specific solution containing lactose, glucose, or fructose, depending on the suspected condition.
4. Breath Sample Collection: Breath samples are taken every 15-30 minutes over 2-3 hours to monitor gas production.
5. Analysis & Diagnosis: If hydrogen or methane levels increase significantly, it indicates bacterial fermentation of undigested sugars, confirming the presence of SIBO, lactose intolerance, or other digestive disorders.

Preparation Guidelines for a Hydrogen Breath Test

To ensure accurate results, patients must follow these guidelines:

• Avoid antibiotics and probiotics for at least 2 weeks before the test.
• No smoking, chewing gum, or strenuous exercise for at least 12 hours before the test.
• Follow a low-fiber, low-carbohydrate diet 24 hours prior.
• Fast for at least 12 hours before the test (only water is allowed).

Advantages of Hydrogen Breath Test at DRHC Dubai

• Non-invasive and painless – No needles or blood tests are required.
• Quick and reliable results – Diagnosis within a few hours.
• Helps pinpoint digestive disorders – Allows for accurate treatment planning.
• Performed by expert gastroenterologists at DRHC Dubai.

Dubai Gastroenterology Clinic—Dr. Rami Hamed Center now provides the leading gastroenterologist in Dubai for Gastric balloons, Colonoscopies, Colon Cancer Screening, and more. DRHC offers highly qualified liver specialist doctors in Dubai. Call +97142798200 to Book your Appointment Today at DRHC Dubai.