|
Conditions like bad breath and flatulence are very common and therefore there are many people who seek various measures to either cure or prevent such conditions from taking a toll on their lives. In the event that you already suffer from one of them, it is highly recommended that you have the medical tests performed in order to have the root cause of the problem identified and subsequently treated. The hydrogen breath test, more commonly known as HBT, is performed in order to diagnose intolerances towards dietary sugars such as fructose, sorbitol or lactose. In individuals who suffer from intolerances towards these foods the small intestines fail to digest the sugars and they make their way to the larger intestines. This is where the substance is fermented by the bacteria present in the colon area. A bi product of the fermentation is hydrogen that is then released in rather large quantities.
The procedure of the hydrogen breath test can be broken down into different stages. This will also help to gain a fuller understanding of the procedure
• In the first stage of the hydrogen breath test the presiding doctor will get a baseline reading of the normal amounts of hydrogen in an individual’s breath.
• Once the baseline reading has been obtained, some amount of the substance that is believed to be causing the buildup of hydrogen is then administered to the patient. Some time is then given for the reaction to take place within the body.
• After a period of about 20 minutes, when the normal chemical reactions have taken place within the body, the readings of the post section of the hydrogen breath test is taken and the levels of hydrogen are compared with the breath levels from before the commencement of the test. If there is a noticeable rise in the hydrogen breath test results, it is a clear indicator of intolerance towards the substance administered. More readings may be taken at later intervals as well.
Hydrogen breath test costs will vary from one practitioner to another, however should not be too expensive because of the fact that it is a non invasive procedure that requires little or no post op care. Hydrogen breath test preparation is also very limited, with the patient usually being asked to abstain from food and drink for a period of about 8 to 12 hours prior to the commencement of the test.
|
