Hydrogen (H2) Breath Test | Youmed

Hydrogen (H2) Breath Test

During the H2 breath test, the patient consumes a solution containing lactose, lactulose, or fructose, and then the hydrogen content of the exhaled air is measured. The purpose of the test is to determine the extent to which the ingested sugars are absorbed in the small intestine. If the sugars are not completely absorbed, they are broken down by bacteria in the large intestine. This leads to the production of hydrogen gas, which is absorbed into the bloodstream and then released into the exhaled air through the lungs.

Diagnosable Conditions

• Lactose intolerance (milk sugar sensitivity): The test shows whether the patient is able to break down milk sugar.
• Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): The detection of the presence of abnormally overgrown bacteria in the small intestine.
• Fructose malabsorption: The impairment of fructose absorption can also be detected using this test.

Test Procedure

• Preparation: The patient must arrive fasting, and certain foods and drinks must be avoided before the test. We provide detailed information regarding this.
• The patient consumes the test substance (a solution containing lactose, lactulose, or fructose).
• The measurement process: At various intervals, the patient blows into a small device that measures the hydrogen content of the exhaled air.