Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
Breath and stool tests show current infection. Blood antibody tests aren't recommended because they stay positive after cure.
Why it's done
- Stomach ulcers or ulcer symptoms
- Ongoing indigestion
- Confirming cure after treatment
Getting ready and what happens
- Stop PPIs for 2 weeks and antibiotics and bismuth for 4 weeks before, if your provider says so.
- Fast before a breath test as instructed.
How the test is done
- Breath test: you drink a solution and breathe into a bag.
- Stool test: you collect a small sample.
What the results mean
Positive
You'll take a combination of antibiotics and an acid reducer, then be retested to confirm cure.
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Related conditions
Related medicines
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.