What is a breath test and how does it work?
A breath test is a non-invasive diagnostic tool used to evaluate how your digestive system processes certain sugars and bacteria. It helps identify underlying conditions such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), H. pylori infection, and food intolerances that may be causing symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort.
Breath Tests Available to NYC Patients
Hydrogen-methane breath test (SIBO)
This test evaluates for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), a condition where excess bacteria in the small intestine interfere with digestion. By measuring hydrogen and methane gas levels after consuming a test solution, this exam can help explain symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation.
Urea breath test (H. pylori)
The urea breath test is used to detect Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium that can infect the stomach lining. H. pylori is a leading cause of peptic ulcers and chronic gastritis. Identifying and treating this infection can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent long-term complications.
Lactose breath test
This test helps determine whether your body can properly digest lactose, the sugar found in dairy products. If lactose is not properly absorbed, it can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort after consuming milk, cheese, or other dairy foods.
Fructose breath test
The fructose breath test evaluates how well your body absorbs fructose, a natural sugar found in fruits, honey, and many processed foods. Poor absorption can result in bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort. Identifying fructose intolerance can help guide dietary adjustments and improve symptom control.
How are breath samples collected and analyzed?
Patients receive clear instructions to ensure accurate results. At-home kits include everything needed to collect and return samples, while in-office testing is supervised by trained staff. Once results are analyzed, your NYGA physician will review the findings with you and develop a treatment plan based on your symptoms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a breath test?
A breath test is a non-invasive diagnostic tool used to evaluate how your digestive system processes certain substances. By analyzing the gases you exhale after drinking a specific solution, the test can identify conditions such as H. pylori infection, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and carbohydrate malabsorption such as lactose, sucrose and fructose intolerance.
How does a breath test work?
During the test, you’ll drink a solution that contains a sugar or urea compound. As your body digests it, certain bacteria or enzymes produce gases, such as hydrogen, methane, or carbon dioxide, that are measured in your breath at timed intervals. These patterns help your gastroenterologist determine whether infection, bacterial overgrowth, or malabsorption is present.
What does a breath test diagnose?
Breath tests help diagnose several digestive conditions by analyzing how your body breaks down specific substances. They are commonly used to detect H. pylori infection, SIBO, and lactose or fructose intolerance. The results can guide targeted treatment, improve symptom management, and provide clarity for patients experiencing bloating, gas, abdominal pain, or unexplained digestive discomfort.
How should I prepare for a hydrogen-methane breath test?
Your NYGA provider will give instructions based on your history. You will need to avoid antibiotics and probiotics for 3 weeks prior to the test. You may need to stop certain motility medications or constipation/diarrhea medications, so speak with your provider to clarify instructions. The day prior, you will be given dietary instructions and will need to avoid lactose and high fiber-containing foods. You may not smoke or exercise the morning of the test. You will fast overnight and do the test prior to eating. The hydrogen-methane breath test traditionally collects breath samples over 3 hours.
Can I drink water before an H. pylori breath test?
You will need to fast for at least 2 hours prior to your H. pylori breath test. This includes avoiding all food and beverages, even small sips of water.
How long does an H. pylori breath test take?
An H. pylori breath test typically takes 15 to 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll breathe into a collection device before and after drinking the testing solution. Once complete, your gastroenterologist will review the results and discuss next steps.
How should I prepare for the H. pylori breath test?
You will need to fast for 2 hours (including no water) and avoid smoking or chewing gum before your H. pylori breath test. Certain medications, especially antibiotics, PPIs, or bismuth-containing products, may need to be stopped up to two weeks beforehand, as they can interfere with test accuracy. Your NYGA physician will give personalized instructions based on your medical history.
Why Patients Choose NYGA
Our board-certified gastroenterologists make it a priority to personally greet you and escort you to the exam room. This intentional, one-on-one introduction creates an immediate sense of trust, respect, and open communication—because we believe strong relationships lead to better care.
We Take the Time
No rushed visits, no generic plans. Every appointment is designed to understand you—your unique symptoms, history, and concerns.
State-of-the-Art Technology
We use advanced diagnostics and leading research to ensure accurate results and deliver the least invasive, most effective care possible.
True Partnership
Our physicians see themselves as your allies, working with you to create treatment strategies that fit your life, not just your diagnosis.
Support at Every Step
From diagnosis through recovery and long-term management, our team ensures you feel seen, heard, and supported at every stage.
Patient-Centered Care
From your first visit, you’ll experience attentive, compassionate care designed around your unique needs.
Expertise You Can Trust
Whether you’re here for a routine colonoscopy, hemorrhoid treatment, or managing complex conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, you’ll be cared for by experts with years of advanced training and hands-on experience.
The NYGA Difference
Patients choose us because they want more than medical expertise—they want a doctor who listens, a team that cares, and an environment where they feel safe and respected. Our personalized, hands-on approach ensures that your digestive health journey is not just managed, but truly cared for.
Book Your Appointment TodayWhat Our Patients Say
Don't just take our word for it. See what our patients have to say about their experiences at NYGA. We are proud of the positive feedback we receive and strive to exceed your expectations every day.
“I had an excellent experience with Dr. Daniel Adler. He is an outstanding gastroenterologist who is knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely cares about his patients. He took the time to listen to my concerns, explained everything clearly, and made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process.His staff was friendly, efficient, and respectful, making the entire visit smooth from start to finish. I truly appreciate the high level of care and attention I received. I highly recommend Dr. Daniel Adler to anyone looking for a compassionate and skilled gastroenterologist.”
“Dr. Pacheco is an exceptional doctor who is incredibly thorough, attentive, and genuinely committed to understanding the full picture. After dealing with an issue for years, Dr. Pacheco took the time to listen carefully, investigate thoroughly, and ultimately diagnose something that had gone undiagnosed for far too long. I’m incredibly grateful for the care and expertise provided. I highly recommend Dr. Pacheco to anyone looking for a thoughtful, thorough, and compassionate physician.”
“Dr. Kenneth Miller has been my Doctor for many years. He is an excellent Doctor specializing in Gastroenterology. He is thorough, kind and compassionate. Dr. Miller is available and responsive to concerns and questions.”
“My experience was excellent and fast service.Great Dr. very concerned for his patients .”
“Dr. Adler is straightforward, sensible and pleasant, and I would recommend him if you need help in his specialty.”
“Dr Aisenberg team are amazing. Kind and excellent.”
“Dr. Frado is very welcoming and competent, she explains in great details diagnosis and options for treatments. Everybody at the Brooklyn office is extremely kind and pleasant”
“Dr Kenneth Miller is one of the best doctors I’ve visited. Professional, knowledgeable and caring. I have recommended him to many friends.”
“Dr. Jaffin is a good listener and asks good questions. His recommendations for follow-up are just right. I’d recommend him.”
“Very professional and friendly office. Dr. Bamjis very patient, friendly and thorough.”
“Friendly and efficient.”
“Hello everyone who’s having Gastroenterological concerns.I’m a patient of Doctor ‘ Anthony Weiss for many years. Not frequent, thank you God.However, his professionalism and steadiness speak for itself. Thank you Doctor Weiss.And, have to add, in my view we live for years already at the time where the working ethics have declined . But not atThe office or procedure’s facility of Doctor Weiss. Everyone’s there very helping and professional. Thank you all.”
“I had a great experience with both Dr. Bamji and Wanda. Both are so dedicated. Thanks”
“Dr. Desai is very kind and knowledgeable. He took my concerns and seriously and took prompt action to address them. I would recommend him. He also explains things really well.”
“He is, to put it simply, the best. I would recommend him highly to anyone looking for a gastroenterologist.”
Accepted Insurance
We accept a wide range of insurance plans to help make your care as affordable as possible.
- 1199
- Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey — PPO plans only
- Aetna
- Magnacare
- Affinity
- Medicare
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Metro Plus
- Cigna
- NYCE PPO (formerly GHI CBP/Anthem BlueCross and BlueShield)
- Emblem Health - HIP
- OSCAR
- Empire NY Government Plan
- Oxford
- Fidelis
- UMR
- Healthfirst
- United Healthcare
If you're not sure whether your insurance is accepted, please call our office. Our staff is happy to check your benefits to help you understand your options.
Schedule an Appointment
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In Person Consultations and Telehealth Appointments
Schedule an in-person consultation with one of NYGA's board-certified gastroenterologists at one of our convenient Manhattan or Brooklyn locations or opt for telehealth to receive expert care from home.
Procedures
We perform upper endoscopies and colonoscopies in our three state-of-the-art facilities:
Convenient Locations Across NYC
Get personalized, expert care tailored to your digestive health needs. Call or Text to be seen today!
Brooklyn Heights
Upper West Side
Ocean Parkway
Patients who cannot use stairs may be seen at another location. Call for details.
Midtown
Upper East Side
Upper East Side
Patients who cannot use stairs may be seen at another location. Call for details.