Urea Breath Test
A simple breath test to detect H. pylori infection.
What Is the Urea Breath Test?
The urea breath test (UBT) is a quick, non-invasive diagnostic test used to detect Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) — a type of bacteria that can live in the stomach and cause ulcers, inflammation, and other digestive problems. The test is simple: you breathe into a collection bag, drink a special solution, and then breathe into another bag a short time later. The test measures changes in your breath that indicate whether H. pylori is present.
Why Would I Need This Test?
- Stomach ulcers — H. pylori is the most common cause of peptic ulcers
- Chronic stomach pain or burning — persistent upper abdominal discomfort
- Nausea or bloating — ongoing symptoms that may suggest H. pylori infection
- Confirming eradication — after treatment for H. pylori, a breath test can confirm the infection is gone
- Family history — if a close family member has H. pylori or stomach cancer
What to Expect
The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes total. First, you breathe into a baseline collection bag. Then you drink a small amount of a flavored solution that contains labeled urea. After waiting about 15 minutes, you breathe into a second collection bag. That is it — no tubes, no needles, no discomfort. You can resume your normal activities and diet immediately.
Why the Breath Test?
The urea breath test is the preferred method for detecting H. pylori because it is highly accurate, completely non-invasive, and does not require blood draws or endoscopy. It is also the best test for confirming that H. pylori treatment has been successful.