Definition:
Lactose intolerance testing is used to determine if a person has difficulty digesting foods that contain lactose. Three primary methods are used:
- The hydrogen breath test. This is the most non-invasive method of the three. You will be required to fast prior to the test and to drink a solution containing lactose.
- Blood testing: As in the hydrogen breath test, you will be required to fast and to drink a solution containing lactose, after which a series of blood samples will be drawn at brief intervals.
- Genetic test: This is done through a blood test which looks for a genetic marker for lactose malabsorption. No fasting or dietary restrictions are necessary. The downside of this test is the expense, which might preclude it from being covered by insurance companies.
Essential Reading
Anal Sphincter EMG | Anorectal Manometry | Balloon Expulsion Test | Barium Enema | The Colonic Transit Time Test | Colonoscopy | Defecography | Hydrogen Breath Testing | MRI Defecography | Sigmoidoscopy | Upper GI series | Upper Endoscopy | Virtual Colonoscopy
