Lactose Intolerance Test

What is the lactose intolerance test?

The lactose intolerance test is a test that measures the ability of the intestines to break down a type of sugar, known as lactose, found in milk and other dairy products. This test is performed when it is suspected that this substance is not digested well and causes discomfort, such as flatulence, abdominal pain, cramping and/or diarrhea.

What does it consist of?

There are two types of lactose intolerance tests: one consists of a blood test to detect the presence of glucose in the blood before and after having ingested a lactose-containing preparation; the other consists of a hydrogen breath test. For this purpose, the patient is made to breathe into airtight bags, before and after having ingested a lactose-containing preparation, with the hourly frequency marked, while the automatic reaction to the ingestion of the preparation (increase in abdominal volume or other physical discomfort, such as pain, spasms, etc.) is checked. Depending on the results obtained in each phase, the test may be extended by several hours. Subsequently, the hydrogen in the breath bags or containers will be analyzed to obtain a detailed diagnosis.

The lactose intolerance test is a test that measures the intestine’s
the ability of the intestines to break down lactose.

Why is it performed?

The lactose intolerance test is performed in order to accurately diagnose whether the patient has difficulty digesting this sugar, which is present in many dairy products. In the case of lactose malabsorption, it is necessary to follow the advice of a specialist in allergology and/or digestive system, and a personalized diet that does not contain lactose products.

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Preparing for the lactose intolerance test

Before the test, the specialist will give you some indications on the preparation. Among the most common recommendations are that the patient should avoid eating any food and should not exercise for 8 hours before undergoing the test.

What does it feel like during the test?

Depending on the method performed, discomfort may be mild or non-existent. If the hydrogen breath test is performed, you should not feel any discomfort, since it is performed by a breath test.

On the other hand, if it is performed by a blood test, some people may feel slight discomfort when the needle is inserted to take the sample. Subsequently, the patient may feel dizzy and have a throbbing sensation.

This test carries no significant risk, although some slight risk may occur during the blood draw (dizziness, fainting, bruising and/or throbbing).

Meaning of abnormal results

Abnormal results may indicate lactose intolerance. If the results of the lactose intolerance test come back abnormal, a second glucose tolerance test should be performed to rule out any problems with the body’s ability to absorb glucose.

The blood test is considered abnormal when the glucose level rises less than 20mg/dL (1.1 mmol/L), within 2 hours of drinking the lactose solution.

If you need to take a lactose intolerance test, you can buy it online and choose the laboratory closest to you.