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Lactose Breath Test at Tulsa Gastrointestinal Consultants (TGiC)
At Tulsa Gastrointestinal Consultants (TGiC), we understand that digestive discomfort can disrupt your daily life. If you’re experiencing symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, or abdominal pain after consuming dairy products, you may have lactose intolerance. Our Lactose Breath Test is a simple, non-invasive way to diagnose this condition and help you take control of your digestive health.
Call us today at (918) 438-7050 to schedule your consultation!
What is a Lactose Breath Test?
The Lactose Breath Test is a diagnostic procedure used to determine if your body is properly digesting lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. During the test, we measure the amount of hydrogen in your breath after consuming a lactose-rich drink. High levels of hydrogen indicate that your body is not breaking down lactose properly, which is a sign of lactose intolerance.
Find out if Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is right for you! Call (918) 438-7050 today.
Why is the Lactose Breath Test Performed?
This test is recommended if you experience symptoms such as:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea after consuming dairy products
Identifying lactose intolerance can help you make informed dietary choices and improve your quality of life.
Need help preparing? Call us at (918) 438-7050 for assistance.
How to Prepare for the Test
To ensure accurate results, follow these preparation steps:
- Avoid certain foods and medications: 24 hours before the test, avoid high-fiber foods, dairy products, and medications like antibiotics or laxatives.
- Fast overnight: Do not eat or drink anything (except water) for at least 8 hours before the test.
- No smoking or vigorous exercise: Avoid smoking and strenuous physical activity on the day of the test.
Our team will provide you with detailed instructions to help you prepare. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call us at (918) 555-1234.
What to Expect During the Test
The Lactose Breath Test is quick, painless, and typically takes about 2-3 hours. Here’s what happens:
- Baseline breath sample: You’ll blow into a bag to provide an initial breath sample.
- Lactose drink: You’ll drink a small amount of a lactose-rich solution.
- Follow-up breath samples: Every 15-30 minutes, you’ll provide additional breath samples to measure hydrogen levels.
You can relax in our comfortable waiting area during the test. Feel free to bring a book or your favorite device to pass the time.
After the Test
Once the test is complete, you can resume your normal activities. Our team will analyze your breath samples and discuss the results with you during a follow-up appointment. If lactose intolerance is confirmed, we’ll work with you to create a personalized plan to manage your symptoms.
Is the Lactose Breath Test Safe?
Yes, the Lactose Breath Test is completely safe and non-invasive. The lactose solution used is well-tolerated by most patients. However, if you have a known allergy to lactose or any other concerns, please let us know before the test.
Need help preparing? Call us at (918) 438-7050 for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does the Lactose Breath Test take?
The test typically takes 2-3 hours, including preparation and breath sample collection.
2. Will I experience any side effects?
Some patients may experience mild bloating or gas after consuming the lactose solution, but these symptoms are temporary.
3. Can I take my regular medications before the test?
Most medications are allowed, but certain ones (like antibiotics or laxatives) may interfere with the results. Please consult our team for specific instructions.
4. What if I’m already on a lactose-free diet?
If you’ve been avoiding lactose, let us know. We may ask you to reintroduce small amounts of dairy before the test to ensure accurate results.
5. How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within a few days. We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss them with you.