Common Conditions Diagnosed with Breath Testing: From SIBO to IBS

Digestive symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, gas, and regular bowel habits can feel frustrating, especially when the cause isn’t clear. Gastrointestinal (GI) breath testing is one of the most important, non-invasive tools gastroenterologists use to identify common digestive disorders. At NYGA, breath testing helps pinpoint conditions such as SIBO, lactose, sucrose and fructose intolerance so that patients can get answers and the right treatment plan.

Understanding Digestive Breath Testing

What is a gastrointestinal breath test? 

A breath test measures the levels of gases, typically hydrogen and methane, that your body produces when you digest certain sugars. After you drink a premeasured sugar solution, bacteria in the gut begin breaking it down. When these bacteria release gas, it travels through the bloodstream and is exhaled through the lungs.

By analyzing these gases, gastroenterologists can determine how well the small intestine is functioning and whether excess bacteria or sugar malabsorption may be causing symptoms. Breath testing is painless, noninvasive, and performed without sedation, making it an easy diagnostic option for many patients.

What conditions can a breath test detect?

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

SIBO occurs when bacteria that usually live in the large intestine begin to overgrow in the small intestine. This can interfere with digestion and cause symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and excessive gas.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Many patients with IBS experience symptoms that overlap with SIBO or fructose intolerance. Breath testing can help identify underlying causes of IBS symptoms, particularly IBS-C (constipation) or IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant) patients. By ruling out other conditions, your gastroenterologist can guide you with the proper treatment.

Lactose and fructose intolerance

If your body cannot properly digest certain sugars, such as lactose, sucrose or fructose, you may experience bloating, cramps, gas, and diarrhea within a few hours of eating. Breath tests measure the gas produced when these sugars aren’t absorbed correctly, helping patients understand which foods trigger symptoms.

How to Prepare for a Breath Test

Preparation may vary based on the specific test, but most patients will need to:

• Avoid antibiotics and probiotics for a short period beforehand.
• Follow a simple low-fiber, low-carbohydrate diet the day before the test.
• Fast for 8-12 hours prior to the procedure.
• Avoid smoking or vigorous exercise before the test.

Your NYGA provider will provide clear, detailed instructions to ensure the most accurate results.

When to Consider Breath Testing

You may benefit from a breath test if you experience:

• Chronic bloating
• Excessive gas
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Symptoms that worsen after eating certain foods
• Ongoing digestive issues without a clear diagnosis

Breath testing is beneficial when symptoms persist despite dietary changes or over-the-counter treatments.  

Breath Testing Services at NYGA

NYGA offers comprehensive breath testing options, performed by experienced clinicians using the latest diagnostic technology. Our gastroenterologists use breath test results to tailor treatment plans and provide clarity on unresolved digestive symptoms.

 

Don’t wait! Prioritize your health today.