This diagnostic assessment measures the amount of hydrogen in exhaled breath after ingesting a specific sugar solution. Elevated levels indicate the malabsorption of that sugar, providing insights into potential digestive issues. For example, a high reading after consuming lactulose could suggest lactose intolerance, while a similar outcome after glucose ingestion might point to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
Evaluating exhaled hydrogen provides a non-invasive way to assess carbohydrate metabolism and pinpoint the underlying causes of various gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. This method offers a valuable alternative to more invasive procedures. Historically, diagnosing these conditions relied on less precise methods, making this approach a significant advancement in gastroenterology.
