Helicobacter Pylori Tests: How It Feels

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How It Feels

Blood antibody test

The blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. An elastic band is wrapped around your upper arm. It may feel tight. You may feel nothing at all from the needle, or you may feel a quick sting or pinch.

Urea breath test

A urea breath test does not normally cause discomfort.

Stool antigen test

Collecting a stool sample normally does not cause any discomfort.

If your doctor collects the sample during a rectal exam, you may feel some pressure or discomfort as the cotton swab is inserted into your rectum.

Stomach biopsy

You may notice a brief, sharp pain when the intravenous (IV) needle is placed in a vein in your arm. The local anesthetic sprayed into your throat usually tastes slightly bitter and will make your tongue and throat feel numb and swollen. Some people report that they feel as if they cannot breathe at times because of the tube in their throat, but this is a false sensation caused by the anesthetic. There is always plenty of breathing space around the tube in your mouth and throat. Remember to relax and take slow, deep breaths.

You may experience some gagging, nausea, bloating, or mild abdominal cramping as the tube is moved. Even though you won't be able to talk during the procedure because you have a tube in your throat, you can still communicate. If the discomfort is severe, alert your doctor with an agreed-upon signal or a tap on the arm.

The IV medications will make you feel sleepy. Other side effects—such as heavy eyelids, difficulty speaking, a dry mouth, or blurred vision—may last for several hours after the test. The medications may also cause you not to remember much of what happens during the test.

Last updated:	January 11, 2008
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Andrew H. Soll, MD - Gastroenterology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC