Types of Breath Test and Their Cost

The typical price of a SIBO Breath Test in the UK is £165. There are several different breath tests available in the UK though and the costs of these can vary widely. Hydrogen breath testing for SIBO is the simplest and least invasive, yet scientifically valid way to test for SIBO without resorting to invasive duodenal aspirate tests which are performed in a hospital. If you are interested in this, you may also want to check out our article: How Do I Know If I Have SIBO

Below we have outlined some of the most common tests, their prices and some of the key considerations when you are deciding on where to purchase a SIBO test.

Lactulose hydrogen breath test

Cost from £162-£165

At IBS Clinics our lactulose hydrogen breath test for SIBO is priced between £162.00 and £165.00. This price is significantly lower than others in the industry. That’s because here at IBS Clinics have secured preferential rates for SIBO testing due to our position as one of the leading expert SIBO clinics in the UK.

We are also one of the only clinics that offer a free 15-minute zoom session to go over test findings (this can be recorded should you wish). Treatment advice and a supplement protocol can be provided at a full hour-long consultation after which personalised recommendations can safely be made taking into account an individual’s background, health history, meal preferences and personal circumstances.

This test is a crucial starting point for anyone suspecting they might be suffering from this condition. It’s a straightforward method that avoids the discomfort and complexity of more invasive procedures.

Utilising a non-invasive lactulose hydrogen breath test, we can evaluate the presence of bacterial overgrowth in your small intestine. The process involves ingesting a lactulose solution and capturing exhaled hydrogen, providing us with insights into your small intestine’s bacterial environment. Sourced from UK labs which provide a fast turnaround of test results, typically just one week and often less.

Once we have this result we can provide an individualised treatment plan tailored to tackling your bloating, pain, nausea, weight loss, diarrhoea or other IBS-related symptoms.

If you’re unsure whether this test is right for you we even offer a free 15 minute chat to talk over symptoms and decide if the test is right for you.

More Information About Lactulose Hydrogen Breath Test

Glucose Breath Test

Cost from £165

This test is similar to the lactulose test but looks instead for glucose. It can be particularly useful for detecting bacterial overgrowth closer to the upper end of the small intestine. Glucose is absorbed more quickly than lactulose, which means it can sometimes provide different insights into the location and extent of bacterial overgrowth. We sometimes recommend that the glucose test is used alongside the lactulose test to assess the entire small intestine.

More Information About SIBO Glucose Breath Test

Fructose

Cost – £165

A newer option in SIBO testing, the fructose breath test can help identify overgrowth that may not be detected by lactulose or glucose tests alone. This test is especially useful for individuals who have fructose malabsorption or experience symptoms when consuming fructose-containing foods. It’s believed that not all bacteria like lactulose but all love fructose.

More information about SIBO Fructose Test

Jejunal Aspiration

Unlike the breath tests mentioned previously, the Jejunal Aspirate Culture is an invasive test and is less commonly performed due to its higher cost and complexity. When available, it is typically offered through specialist private clinics and can cost upwards of £800 to £1,000. This test is usually considered when breath tests are inconclusive or when a comprehensive gastrointestinal assessment is warranted.

SIBO Test NHS

Are SIBO tests available on the NHS?

There can be several potential problems or challenges in asking a GP for a SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) test on the NHS:

1. Lack of awareness/recognition: SIBO is a relatively lesser-known condition, and some GPs may not be familiar with it or its diagnostic testing. This could lead to difficulty in getting the request approved initially
2. Strict referral criteria: The NHS typically has specific criteria and pathways for ordering tests, especially more specialised ones like SIBO breath tests. GPs may need to rule out other conditions first before referring for SIBO testing.
3. Limited availability: Depending on the region, there may be limited availability or long waiting lists for SIBO breath testing through the NHS. Some areas may not offer it at all.
4. Cost constraints: While the NHS aims to provide comprehensive care, there are inevitable budget constraints. GPs may be cautious about ordering tests perceived as expensive or non-essential unless symptoms are severe.
5. Prioritising other investigations: For symptoms like bloating or diarrhoea, GPs often begin with more common tests like blood work, stool samples, or endoscopies before considering SIBO, which is a functional disorder.
6. Scepticism about efficacy: Some medical professionals may be sceptical about the reliability or usefulness of SIBO testing and treatment.

The key challenges are lack of awareness, meeting strict criteria, testing availability/costs, and the perceived need to rule out other conditions first through the standard diagnostic pathway for gastrointestinal issues. Patients may need to strongly advocate for themselves and provide education to their GPs about SIBO to get approved for testing.

Financial Considerations for SIBO Testing

Navigating the financial aspects of SIBO testing involves understanding not only the cost of the tests themselves but also the broader picture, including NHS and insurance coverage, and other factors that might influence the overall expense. In the UK, the availability of SIBO testing through the NHS can be limited, and where available, it often involves specific criteria or long waiting times. This reality makes private testing a quicker, albeit more expensive, alternative for many seeking immediate answers and relief.

The cost of a SIBO test at private clinics like IBS Clinics ranges from £162.00 to £165.00, a reflection of the comprehensive approach taken to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. It’s important to consider that this price not only covers the test kit itself but also the expertise of healthcare professionals who analyse your results and provide personalised advice based on those findings.

SIBO Test Covered by Insurance?

It’s important to explore all avenues for financial assistance. For those with private health insurance, we recommend contacting your provider to inquire about coverage for SIBO testing. Policies differ, and some may cover diagnostic tests, especially if they are deemed necessary by a healthcare professional. If you’re unsure about how to approach this conversation with your insurance company, our team can offer guidance on the questions to ask and the information you might need to provide.

Other Factors That May Impact SIBO Test Costs

Several factors can influence the cost of SIBO testing beyond the basic price of the test. These include the type of test administered, any additional consultations required to interpret the results, and follow-up treatments or dietary advice provided by the clinic. At IBS Clinics, we aim to be transparent about these costs, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the potential financial commitment from the outset.

Preparing for a SIBO test, including adhering to a specific diet and possibly stopping certain medications, does not significantly affect the test’s cost but is crucial for ensuring accurate results. We provide detailed guidance on how to prepare for your test, ensuring that these preparatory steps are as straightforward and manageable as possible.

Understanding these financial considerations is key to making an informed decision about proceeding with SIBO testing. Our team at IBS Clinics is committed to providing support and advice, helping you navigate these decisions with confidence and clarity, ensuring that the path to better gut health is accessible to you.

Addressing Cost Concerns for SIBO Testing

The journey towards diagnosing and treating SIBO can bring with it concerns about affordability. At IBS Clinics, we understand that the cost of testing might be daunting for some. However, we believe that financial constraints should not prevent anyone from accessing the care they need. Here’s how we aim to support you through this process, offering solutions and alternatives to make SIBO testing more accessible.

For individuals without insurance coverage or where SIBO testing is not covered, IBS Clinics is committed to providing clear, upfront information about all potential costs. This transparency ensures that you can make informed decisions without encountering unexpected expenses. We also understand the importance of flexibility and can discuss payment plans or alternative testing options that may be more affordable.

In some cases, making adjustments to your diet and lifestyle under professional guidance can offer relief from symptoms while you consider the best approach to testing. Our team can provide advice on dietary changes that may help manage your symptoms in the short term. This approach is not a substitute for diagnosis and treatment but can be a valuable part of a holistic approach to gut health.

If the cost of SIBO testing is a significant concern, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our goal is to work with you to find a solution that enables you to access the testing and treatment you need. Whether it’s through a payment plan, exploring less expensive testing options, or providing support and advice on managing your symptoms, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Remember, investing in a SIBO test is an investment in your health and wellbeing. Understanding the root cause of your symptoms is the first step towards effective treatment and ultimately, a better quality of life. At IBS Clinics, we’re committed to making this journey as accessible and supportive as possible, ensuring that financial concerns do not stand in the way of achieving better gut health.

Interpreting SIBO Test Results and Financial Implications

Once you’ve completed your SIBO test, the next crucial step is interpreting the results. This process is not just about identifying the presence of bacterial overgrowth; it’s about understanding the broader implications for your health and the potential costs associated with follow-up treatments or additional testing. At IBS Clinics, we approach this phase with a commitment to clarity, support, and comprehensive care and, as mentioned, a free 15 minute explanation of your results is available.

Understanding The Results of Your SIBO Test

The results from your SIBO test will indicate whether there is an overgrowth of bacteria in your small intestine and, if so, the severity of the condition. A positive result can bring mixed feelings—relief at having a diagnosis, but concern about what comes next. Our team is here to guide you through these results, explaining what they mean in a straightforward and empathetic manner.

The Cost of Follow-Up Care

A positive SIBO test is the first step towards a tailored treatment plan, which may include antibiotics, probiotics, dietary changes, or a combination of these approaches. Each treatment option comes with its own considerations, including cost. We strive to provide you with a clear understanding of these potential costs upfront, so you can make informed decisions about your care.

For instance, the cost of antibiotics can vary, and while some may be covered by insurance, others might not. Similarly, dietary changes might require the support of a nutritionist, adding to the overall cost of managing SIBO. Our team will discuss all these aspects with you, ensuring you have a comprehensive view of the potential financial commitment.

Additional SIBO Testing

In some cases, further testing may be necessary to fully understand your digestive health and to monitor the effectiveness of your treatment. This could include repeat SIBO tests, stool analysis, or other diagnostic procedures. We will always discuss the need for any additional tests with you in advance, including why they are recommended and any associated costs. Our aim is to avoid unnecessary testing while ensuring we have a complete picture of your health.

Financial Support and Planning

Understanding the financial implications of SIBO treatment can be overwhelming. Our team at IBS Clinics is dedicated to supporting you through this process, offering advice on insurance coverage, payment plans, and ways to manage the costs of treatment and testing. We believe that financial concerns should not be a barrier to receiving high-quality care and are committed to finding solutions that work for you.

In conclusion, the journey from SIBO testing to treatment is a collaborative process. We are here to provide not only medical care but also guidance on managing the financial aspects of your treatment plan. Our goal is to ensure that you feel supported, informed, and confident in your path to better gut health, without undue stress about the costs involved.