Breath test

An H2 breath test is used to clarify various digestive disorders that mainly lead to diarrhea and flatulence. Hydrogen (H2) is produced when carbohydrates are broken down in the small intestine.

Procedure of the examination

The concentration of this hydrogen can be measured via the exhaled air using a special device. Various sugar solutions can be administered as a drink, depending on which digestive disorder is to be tested: Lactose in the case of suspected lactose intolerance, lactulose or glucose in the case of small bowel mal-colonization, fructose in the case of fructose intolerance.

The measurements usually take 3 hours.