Lab Tests at Dr. Justin McCarthy MD

The office of Dr. Justin McCarthy offers four different lab tests that can detect bacteria, infection, unexplained GI bleed, and chronic diarrhea. Along with lab tests, our Orbera Weight Loss system could be the key to a healthier you! 

 

H. Pylori Test

 

The main purpose of this test is to detect H. Pylori infection. H. Pylori is a heart shaped infection in the digestive tract. We begin the test by having our patient breath into a bag, drink a special drink, then wait 15 minutes to breath into a different bag. The patient will receive feedback before the end of their appointment. Based on the results, we can then make the accurate decisions of which antibiotics to use for treatment. Overall, this is our easiest test for patients and we highly recommend it if you are feeling pain in your abdomen and stomach. 

 

Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth Breath Test

 

The main purpose is to detect presence of high numbers of bacteria in the small bowel. This test will detect the bacteria by taking breathing samples. The machine will then determine the amount of hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide present. This 3 hour test will provide you with reading materials and items to occupy yourself with, if you forget to bring anything. 

 

Pillcam Endoscopy

 

The main purpose of this test is to find any traces that could lead to suspected Crohn’s Disease. Unexplained GI bleeding should be checked right away, because you could be at risk of having Crohn’s Disease. The test begins by having the patient swallow a capsule the size of a large vitamin. The Vitamin has a small camera on the end that will move throughout the patient and will exit via bowel movement. Do not return the capsule! Also, there will be a recording device warn by the patient on their shoulder that will need to be returned on the same day. 

 

Smart Pill Test

 

The main purpose of this test is to test for gastroparesis or chronic constipation. The Smart Pill is a GI mobility test which measures the whole systems transit times. It can be used as a non-radioactive test for gastroparesis and chronic constipation. 

 

For More Information 

 

For more information on our lab tests, our Orbera Weight Loss System, and other services visit our website at http://www.justinmccarthymd.com/home. Or give us a call at 806-761-0722! 

What is SIBO?

Issues of the small intestines can cause both physical and emotional discomfort as patients deal with its embarrassing symptoms. While there are many conditions that can cause intestinal issues, bacterial overgrowth can be a serious condition that requires proper diagnosis to be treated effectively. 

Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a proliferation of bacteria in the small intestines. It is typically caused by an intestinal obstruction, improper functioning of intestinal nerves or muscles, or blind loop syndrome (this happens when digested food slows or stops moving through part of the intestines). When these conditions occur, excess bacterium build up causes increased discomfort. 

Some of the most common symptoms of SIBO include:

•          Abdominal distention
•          Bloating
•         Abdominal tenderness or pain
•          Gas
•          Diarrhea
•          Weight loss
•         Vitamin and mineral deficiencies

Because many of the symptoms of SIBO are comparable to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) it is important for you to have special diagnostic testing to rule out excess bacteria overgrowth. One of the most common tests to diagnose SIBO is called a breath test. It is conducted by analyzing breath samples for excess hydrogen, methane or both. The test is simple, pain free and can be performed at a physician’s office. 

It includes the following steps:

1.      24-hours prior to the test – there are specific diet restriction prior to testing. The first 12 hours include a special diet while the second 12 is a complete fast.  You will be able to brush your teeth, but you are not to eat any food per the doctor’s orders.

2.      Control sample - Once at the testing location, the doctor will collect a control breath sample in a small balloon.

3.      Sugar ingestion- You will be asked to consume a small packet of test sugar (normally lactulose or glucose).

4.      Breath samples - For the next few hours, breath samples will be take every 15 to 20 minutes.

5.      Analysis - Breath samples will be sent to a laboratory to be analyzed for excess amounts of hydrogen and methane gases.

Once diagnosed, your doctor can determine the best course of treatment. Normally this includes a combination of antibiotics and probiotics. 

Are you or someone you know suffering from conditions similar to irritable bowel syndrome? Contact Dr. JustinMcCarthy, MD, for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.