How is H. Pylori diagnosed and what tests are needed?

H. Pylori diagnosis relies on precise laboratory tests — symptoms alone aren't sufficient since they overlap with other conditions.

Diagnostic Tests:

• Urea Breath Test: Best and most accurate — swallow a urea capsule then breathe into a bag. If H. Pylori is present, it breaks down urea producing CO2 detected in breath. 95%+ accuracy.
• Stool Antigen Test: Simple and accurate — detects H. Pylori proteins in stool. Suitable for children.
• Blood Test (Antibodies): Detects antibodies but cannot differentiate between active and past infection — not ideal for follow-up.
• Gastric Endoscopy: Biopsy taken directly from stomach lining — most accurate but requires endoscopic procedure.

Pre-Test Tips:

• Stop proton pump inhibitors (PPI) 2 weeks before testing.
• Stop antibiotics 4 weeks before.
• Fast 4-6 hours before breath test.

At BEIT TARIQ Center, we offer breath test and stool antigen test with same-day rapid and accurate results.