Lactose Intolerance
Alternate Names : Lactase Deficiency
How is the condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis of lactose intolerance begins with a medical history and
physical exam. The healthcare provider may order the following tests:
lactose tolerance test, which measures blood levels of glucose after a
person has had a drink containing lactose
hydrogen breath test, which can detect increased levels of hydrogen gas
produced by fermentation of lactose in the intestines and excreted through the
lungs
stool acidity test, which measures acids found in stool when the lactose is
not digested
In most cases, such tests are not required. If lactose intolerance is
suspected, then milk and milk products can be eliminated from the diet for a
period of time. If the symptoms go away, then lactose-containing foods should
be added back into the diet to be sure that lactose was the culprit.
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