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.
“Good doctor”
“Dr. Ana Tuyama is truly the best doctor I’ve ever had. She never rushes through her consultations, always taking the time to listen and explain everything clearly. She’s incredibly attentive and kind. I wholeheartedly recommend her.”
“Everyone was very nice at this office and Dr. Jaffin was friendly and made me feel comfortable with the procedure. Definitely recommend.”
“My colonoscopy experience with Dr Frado was awesome. I had to find a new GI doctor and I made the perfect choice. She was very friendly and caring and this put me at ease for my procedure.”
“The kindest, most thorough Dr one could hope for”
“Dr. Tuyama is an excellent physician. She is very personable, professional, and truly caring with her patients.”
“excellent all around”
“Dr Miller did my colonoscopy and I have nothing but praise for him. The waiting was short and it went really smoothly. Thank you again Dr Miller”
“This is my second time to have the colonoscopy performed @ NYGA by Dr Kavaler and I have to say this was a great experience again. The whole team makes it a smooth and non-traumatic event. Dr Kavaler has a way to execute with great efficiency while making you comfortable at the same time -it shows they care.Thank you”
“This endoscopy center was brilliantly run and staffed by knowing, caring people. Its pre-procedure protocol was meticulous. I highly recommend it!”
“My experience was wonderful the whole way very respectful & pleasant to speak with, I will definitely recommend thumbs up to the doctor Thank you!”
“Very empathetic and knowledgeable dr”
“From check in to departure, the staff were incredibly kind and Dr Eisenberg is the best”
“Was one of the most organized, respectful, clean and easy experience of this kind I’ve had in a long time. When you have to have a colonoscopy, I would heartily recommend this place.I’d also highly recommend Dr Nagmayon. Got a great, real-person demeanor, willing to answer your questions what seemed like honestly, and seemed really caring.”
“From entering the front registration desk to being walked out to meet my SisterThe Endoscopy Center Staff was exemplaryRegistration and all the steps along the way were handled efficiently And professionallyMost importantly, Dr. Adler is the Consummate diagnosticianA Doctor so skilled in the procedure and yet compassionate and caring, which is a rarity today”
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.
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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.