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Procedures

Breath Testing in Charlotte

A painless, non-invasive diagnostic tool  performed by Charlotte's  leading gastroenterologists

  • Quick and simple test with no needles, lengthy evaluations, or invasive procedures
  • Requires only a breath sample to accurately diagnose various gastrointestinal conditions
  • Backed by 28+ years of expertise and thousands of successfully performed tests
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TRUST YOUR GUT TO THE EXPERTS

What is Breath Testing?

Breath testing is a non-invasive, painless diagnostic tool that identifies a number of gastrointestinal conditions. By simply breathing into a specialized device, our board-certified gastroenterologists, with 28+ years of experience, can diagnose lactose intolerance, fructose intolerance, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and H. pylori. Breath testing is available at our Rea Farms, Randolph Road, Huntersville, and Mooresville offices.

At Charlotte Gastro, we understand that discomfort and unclear answers can discourage patients from seeking the care they need. That’s why we offer breath testing: an easy, comfortable procedure that delivers fast, reliable results — helping you receive timely treatment and meaningful symptom relief.

CONDITIONS

Conditions We Treat

Breath testing is ideal for patients who suspect they may have:

Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a common condition, often occurring in older adults, and is more prevalent among African-American, Asian-American, Hispanic-American, and Native-American populations.

Fructose Intolerance

Fructose intolerance is more common in patients who have been diagnosed with another gastrointestinal disorder, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Bacterial overgrowth is more common in patients who have been diagnosed with another gastrointestinal disorder, including IBS, celiac disease, and IBD. Other risk factors include motility disorders or structural abnormalities that cause food to move more slowly through the intestinal tract.

H. pylori

H.pylori is more common in older adults, in people who live closely with someone who is infected, and in certain regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, and South America.

Risk Factors

  • Older adults (for lactose intolerance and H. pylori)
  • African-American, Asian-American, Hispanic, or Native-American heritage
  • Prior diagnosis of IBS, celiac disease, or IBD
  • History of motility disorders or structural abnormalities
  • Close contact with someone infected with H. pylori
  • Residence in or travel to Asia, Africa, or South America

Symptoms

  • Abdominal pain
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Gas
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Burping
  • Heartburn
THE PROCEDURE

What to Expect

Before the Procedure

1.

Avoid slow-to-digest foods such as beans, bran, or high-fiber foods the day before your test to ensure accurate results.

2.

Fast after midnight — no food or water before the test. You may brush your teeth the day of the test, but spit out the toothpaste and rinse with water at least three hours before your appointment.

3.

Avoid smoking, sleeping, or vigorous exercise for at least 30 minutes before the test begins.

4.

Inform your physician of any antibiotics or probiotic supplements you are currently taking, as these can affect test accuracy. You should be off antibiotics for at least 7 days prior to testing.

5.

If you are being tested for H. pylori specifically, stop taking all antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) two weeks before your appointment.

During and After the Procedure

During the test, you will follow specific instructions depending on which condition is being screened. For most tests, you will drink a specialized solution or beverage, then provide breath samples by exhaling into a machine at regular intervals. The process typically takes between 1 and 3 hours. Once complete, your samples will be analyzed and results delivered to your doctor within a few days. Our team will follow up with you promptly.

Medications to Pause

  • Antibiotics (stop at least 7 days prior)
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (stop 2 weeks prior for H. pylori test)
  • Sucralfate
  • Pepto-Bismol

What to Bring

  • Insurance card
  • Photo ID
  • List of current medications
  • Completed patient intake forms
TRUST YOUR GUT TO THE EXPERTS

Expert Care by Charlotte’s Best Gastroenterologists

Breath testing at Charlotte Gastro is a simple, painless procedure designed to deliver fast, accurate results. Rather than requiring lengthy evaluations or invasive diagnostics, our expert team guides you through a comfortable process — all you need to do is breathe. We handle the analysis and deliver results quickly, so treatment can begin without delay.

Location and Scheduling

Breath testing is available at our Rea Farms, Randolph Road, Huntersville, and Mooresville offices. To schedule an appointment, call (704) 377-4009. Questions about insurance coverage? Our team will walk you through what’s covered and what to expect before your visit.

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FAQs

A breath test can diagnose a number of gastrointestinal issues. We use breath testing to diagnose lactose intolerance, fructose intolerance, bacterial overgrowth syndrome, and H. Pylori infection, the bacteria responsible for stomach ulcers.