Marion, Ill.-based Heartland Regional Medical Group's gastroenterology department is using a hydrogen breath test to diagnose patients with irritable bowel syndrome, local CBS affiliate KFVS reported Nov. 18.
Gastroenterologists collect breath samples from adults every 15 minutes and from children every 30 minutes. The samples are then analyzed to see if certain gases produced by excess bacteria are present.
The hydrogen test can assess several digestive disorders, including bloating and diarrhea.