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Lactose Intolerance


Diagnosis & Tests

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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