Can I drink water before a breath test

Drinking water is usually not allowed before a breath test. Breath tests are mainly used to detect Helicobacter pylori infection or lactose intolerance. Drinking water may dilute the concentration of gastric markers or interfere with gas analysis results, affecting the accuracy of the test.

Fasting for 8-12 hours is required before the breath test, and drinking water is prohibited during this period. Food residues and liquids in the stomach can react with test reagents, resulting in uneven distribution of markers. The intake of water may accelerate gastric emptying, allowing urea or lactose markers to enter the intestine before they are fully broken down. Some experiments require sitting still after oral administration of reagents, and drinking water may cause gastric peristalsis, leading to fluctuations in the concentration of target gases in exhaled samples. High fiber diet and antibiotic use should be avoided 24 hours before testing, as these factors may interfere with the test results.

A few special breath tests, such as hydrogen breath tests, may allow for a small amount of water to be consumed, but strict adherence to medical advice is required. For children or diabetes patients and other special groups, doctors may adjust the water prohibition requirements to prevent hypoglycemia. If you have to drink water due to unbearable thirst, it is recommended to communicate with a doctor in advance, use no more than 50 milliliters of water, and delay the test for 30 minutes after drinking water. After completing the breath test, it is necessary to replenish fluids in a timely manner to avoid discomfort caused by prolonged fasting time. The daily diet can increase digestible food, such as rice porridge, Mantou, etc., to reduce gastrointestinal irritation. If the test results are abnormal, further diagnosis should be confirmed by combining gastroscopy or serological testing, and standardized treatment should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.