If you experience bloating, stomach cramps, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products, you may have lactose intolerance. To diagnose this condition, doctors often recommend a lactose breath test, which is a simple and non-invasive procedure. Let’s take a closer look at how this test works and what it involves.

What is lactose intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. This condition occurs when the body lacks an enzyme called lactase, which is needed to break down lactose into simpler sugars for absorption into the bloodstream.

What is a lactose breath test?

A lactose breath test is a diagnostic test used to determine if a person is lactose intolerant. During the test, the patient drinks a solution containing lactose and then breathes into a device that measures the amount of hydrogen in their breath.

How does the test work?

When lactose reaches the large intestine undigested, bacteria present in the colon ferment it, producing hydrogen gas as a byproduct. This hydrogen is then absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually exhaled through the breath. By measuring the amount of hydrogen in the breath, doctors can determine if lactose intolerance is present.

What happens during a lactose breath test?

The lactose breath test is typically performed in a doctor’s office or clinic. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of what happens:

  • The patient is asked to fast for approximately 8 hours before the test.
  • At the beginning of the test, a baseline breath sample is taken.
  • The patient drinks a lactose solution, which usually contains about 50 grams of lactose.
  • Every 15 to 30 minutes, breath samples are collected and analyzed for hydrogen content.
  • The test continues for up to 3 hours or until a significant rise in hydrogen levels is observed.

What do the results indicate?

If there is a significant increase in hydrogen levels during the test, it suggests that the patient is unable to properly digest lactose, indicating lactose intolerance. On the other hand, if the hydrogen levels remain relatively stable, it suggests lactose digestion is occurring normally.

Is the lactose breath test accurate?

The lactose breath test is widely recognized as a reliable method for diagnosing lactose intolerance. However, false-positive or false-negative results may occur in some cases due to various factors, such as recent antibiotic use or bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.

The lactose breath test is a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing lactose intolerance. By measuring the hydrogen levels in a patient’s breath after consuming a lactose solution, doctors can accurately determine if lactose digestion is impaired. If you suspect you have lactose intolerance, consult your healthcare provider who can guide you through the lactose breath test and provide appropriate guidance for managing your condition.

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