A pediatric gastroenterology consultation starts with the collection of a detailed medical history, covering the medical history of the family and the perinatal period as well. It is followed by physical examinations, which also include the measurement of weight and height. Based on the obtained data, we analyze the child’s growth rate, taking into account the results of previous examinations as well.

Based on clinical symptoms and complaints, we conduct laboratory and ultrasound examinations. If necessary, we recommend specialized tests such as the hydrogen breath test, the C13 urea breath test, or the sweat chloride test.

Part of these tests are available at our facility. For tests that cannot be performed at Maternity, we assist patients with recommendations for specific partner institutions.

During follow-up examinations, we evaluate the results and provide therapeutic recommendations for parents to support the child’s health and development.

 

H2 Breath Test (Lactose and fructose intolerance)

Overview of the examination

The test is based on the principle that if a disaccharide (lactose or fructose) consumed is not absorbed in the small intestine, it undergoes bacterial fermentation in the colon, producing hydrogen. This hydrogen enters the bloodstream, reaches the lungs and is then exhaled. During the test, after consuming the test solution, the patient must exhale into a gas chromatograph device at specific time intervals, which measures the hydrogen concentration in the exhaled air. The test takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with the patient blowing air into the device through a mouthpiece every 20 minutes.

DO NOT take before the test

• Antibiotics within 4 weeks
• Laxatives, probiotics and any digestion-affecting medications, or acid reducers within 1 week

The day before the test

DO NOT CONSUME:

• Vegetables, fruits, legumes, bloating foods, nuts
• Milk and dairy products, carbonated drinks, fruit juice
• Lactose-containing foods, pastries with milk, chocolate
• Foods high in fat or oil
• Coffee, tea and alcohol

YOU MAY CONSUME:

• Poultry or fish (boiled, plain baked or steamed)
• Potatoes, rice, ham, eggs, pasta
• Lactose-free cold cuts and sausages
• White bread/rolls/baguettes (without seeds)
• Still mineral water

The evening before the test

• Have dinner no later than 8:00 PM and do not drink anything after 9:00 PM.
• Brush your teeth thoroughly in the evening.
• For infants and young children, the doctor will provide specific dietary and fasting instructions based on their eating habits and age.
• Please bring an empty baby bottle if the test is for an infant.

On the day of the test

• Arrive with an empty stomach (no food or drink).
• After waking up, brush your teeth thoroughly without toothpaste and repeat before leaving.
• DO NOT chew gum or eat candy.
• DO NOT use lipstick, lip gloss or any other cosmetics.

The test CANNOT be performed if

• You have a fever or a respiratory illness.
• The initial control measurement shows a high hydrogen concentration (e.g., due to not following the prescribed diet). 

Helicobacter pylori breath test

Overview of the examination

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium found in the digestive system. The test requires the consumption of urea labeled with a C13 isotope. If the bacterium is present, it breaks down the urea into ammonia and bicarbonate, releasing isotope-labeled carbon dioxide, which can be detected in the exhaled breath. The entire test takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

 Preparation before the test

• The C13-labeled urea must be consumed in an acidic pH liquid (e.g., apple juice).

DO NOT take before the test

• Antibiotics within 4 weeks
• Acid-reducing medications within 1 week (including H2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors)

On the day of the test

• Arrive on an empty stomach, with at least 6 hours of fasting.
• You may drink water, but sugar and/or calorie-containing drinks (such as fruit juice, lemonade, energy drinks, coffee) should be avoided.
• No water is allowed 1 hour before the test.
• After consuming the isotope, you will need to wait 10-20 minutes, then exhale into a breath card, which will be analyzed with a device. Patients will receive their test results within minutes.

The test CANNOT be performed if

• You have a fever or a respiratory illness.
• The initial control measurement shows a high hydrogen concentration (e.g., due to not following the prescribed diet).