What does a high C14 breath test value represent?

A high C14 breath test value usually indicates helicobacter pylori infection. Helicobacter pylori is a common stomach bacterium that can cause diseases such as gastritis, gastric ulcers, and even stomach cancer. The C14 breath test is a non-invasive detection method that determines infection with Helicobacter pylori by measuring the level of radiocarbon-14 labeled carbon dioxide in exhaled gas. The main reasons for high C14 breath test values are gastric mucosal injury, abnormal gastric acid secretion, weakened immune system function, long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and familial genetic factors. Gastric mucosal injury may lead to easier colonization and reproduction of Helicobacter pylori, abnormal gastric acid secretion may affect the gastric environment, weakened immune system function may not effectively eliminate bacteria, long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may damage the gastric mucosa, and familial genetic factors may increase the probability of infection. When the C14 breath test value is high, it usually manifests as symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, indigestion, acid reflux, decreased appetite, and weight loss. Upper abdominal pain may present as dull pain or burning sensation, indigestion may be accompanied by bloating and early satiety, acid reflux and belching may have a sour taste, decreased appetite may lead to reduced food intake, and weight loss may occur without deliberate weight loss. The main treatment methods for Helicobacter pylori infection include antibiotic combination therapy, proton pump inhibitors, gastric mucosal protectants, traditional Chinese medicine regulation, and dietary adjustments. Combination therapy with antibiotics usually includes drugs such as clarithromycin, amoxicillin, and metronidazole. Proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole can inhibit gastric acid secretion. Gastric mucosal protectants such as bismuth potassium citrate can protect the gastric mucosa. Traditional Chinese medicine may include medicinal herbs such as Huanglian and Huangqin. Dietary adjustments suggest avoiding spicy and irritating foods. The preventive measures for Helicobacter pylori infection include paying attention to dietary hygiene, avoiding shared utensils, regular physical examinations, enhancing immunity, and reducing stress. Pay attention to dietary hygiene to prevent the spread of bacteria through food, avoid sharing utensils to reduce the risk of cross infection, regular physical examinations can help detect infections early, enhance immunity can be achieved through balanced diet and moderate exercise, and reducing stress may help maintain stomach health.

It is recommended that infected individuals follow medical advice to complete the entire treatment process, and even if symptoms improve, they should not stop taking medication on their own. During the treatment period, it is advisable to avoid drinking and smoking, maintain a regular daily routine, and consume foods rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber in moderation, such as fresh vegetables and fruits. After treatment, it is recommended to repeat the C14 breath test to confirm whether Helicobacter pylori has been eradicated. Pay attention to the serving of individual dishes system in daily life to avoid the risk of infection to family members.