Preparation for the investigation
Please read the following information carefully. If you do not follow the correct preparation the appointment will be rescheduled.
| How Long before | What do I need to stop? |
| 8 Weeks before the test | If you have e taken antibiotics to treat H.pylori you must have finished taking them at least 8 weeks prior to the test. |
| 4 weeks before the test |
If you have taken antibiotics for anything other than your stomach you need to have finished taking them at least 4 weeks prior to the test. Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) must be stopped at least 4 weeks prior to the test. |
| 2 weeks before the test |
Unless told otherwise, please stop the following acid relieving medications 2 weeks prior the test: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Omeprazole (Losec), esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Zoton), rabeprazole (Pariet), pantoprazole (Pantoloc) H2 histamine receptor antagonists: Cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), nizatidine |
| 6 hours before the test | You must have nothing to eat for 6 hours before the investigation. You can only drink still, unflavoured water. |
| 1 hour before the test | Please only drink small sips of water |
• Please do not smoke on the day of the test this includes all forms (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, vapes etc).
• Over the counter antacids such as Gaviscon and Rennies can be taken until the day before the test. Please do not take any antacids on the day of the test.
• If you take medication for other conditions, e.g. heart/ respiratory/other medical issues please continue to take this medication as normal. Only stop the medications listed above.
If you have any questions about the investigation, or which medications to stop please contact the department on 01253 953715.
Diabetic patients: You should have been contacted by the GI Physiology Department prior to receiving this letter to discuss any required changes to your diabetic medication. You should have received a morning appointment. If this is not the case please contact the GI Physiology Department on 01253 953715.
If your blood sugar falls to around 5.0 mmol/L or less or if you experience hypoglycaemic symptoms (e.g. sweating, shaking, palpitations, nausea, headache, speech difficulty, confusion etc.), take 15-20 grams of carbohydrate in a sugary drink such as 200mls of Glucose (Lucozade) drink or 150mls of non-diet fizzy drinks such as cola. Then recheck the blood glucose 15 minutes after. It is important that you do not drive yourself to/from the appointment if your blood glucose level is below 5.0mmol/L.
Please bring your diabetic medication, your blood glucose monitor, and some food to the appointment. You will be able to have this once the test is finished.
What is Helicobacter pylori?
Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) is a type of bacteria that can infect the lining of the stomach and duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. There can be some complications associated with H.pylori such as irritation to the stomach causing inflammation referred to as gastritis, and damage to the protective lining of the stomach and small intestine leading to an open sore (ulcer).
What is a urea breath test?
A urea breath test is a simple, non-invasive breath test. It is used to determine whether H.pylori infection is present.
What happens during the test?
You will be greeted by a member of staff and the test will be explained. You will be asked to confirm you have followed the correct preparation for the test (see preparation for investigation section).
• Two breath samples will be collected by blowing into test tubes through a straw.
• You will be asked to swallow a tablet whole with some water.
• After 10 minutes you will be asked to blow into 2 more test tubes.
• The test is then complete. Results should be posted out within 14 days.
For an accurate test you must be able to swallow a tablet whole. If you have any swallowing difficulties, or do not feel you are able to do this, please contact the department as soon as possible as you will probably need an alternative test.
What happens if I have H.pylori?
If your test comes back positive the referring Consultant or GP will usually prescribe a short course of antibiotics and an acid relieving medication to take together, this can be for 7-14 days. It is important to take the medication exactly as it is prescribed and finish the full course. If you have had several antibiotics for the bacteria in the past the treatment plan may be different.
How long does the test take?
The test takes about 15 minutes to perform.
Can I bring anyone with me?
The test is quick and non-invasive so you can bring 1 person with you if required.
Where do I go for the test?
Please go to the GI Physiology Department, this is in the Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Building (Area 6) of Blackpool Teaching Hospital.
What if I have any questions about the test?
Please contact the GI Physiology department on 01253 953715 if you have any questions. There is an answer machine available 24 hours a day, if you leave your name and a contact number your call will be returned as soon as possible.
Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Unit Location Map
Access from the main hospital multistorey car park
We are located in Area 6 - Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Unit, highlighted in orange on the main hospital map. Follow the signs for the Main Hospital up the escalator/lift towards Area 6, second corridor on the left. Follow the signs down the link corridor, exit to the right via the side door (external) which is signposted for Patient Entrance to Reception.
Access for drop off/collection only & disability parking
Enter via East Park Drive and follow the road up the hill, take the second left signposted for Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Unit Drop Off Only, follow the road round to the right.
Leaflet Number PL/1052 (V1)
Author Ashley Eaton
Review Date 01/12/2027
