Lactose intolerance is a condition where people have difficulty digesting milk and other dairy products. It is caused by a lack of lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose, a sugar found in milk.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance can include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Diagnosing lactose intolerance involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specialized testing.

Medical History

One of the first steps in diagnosing lactose intolerance is taking a thorough medical history. The doctor will ask about the patient’s symptoms, when they occur, and whether they are associated with eating dairy products.

They may also ask about family history and other medical conditions. A family history of lactose intolerance or other digestive disorders can increase the likelihood of a diagnosis.

Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease, can cause similar symptoms and will need to be ruled out before a diagnosis of lactose intolerance is made.

Physical Examination

A physical examination can also provide clues to the presence of lactose intolerance. The doctor may examine the abdomen for signs of bloating or gas.

They may also listen to the abdomen with a stethoscope to check for bowel sounds, which can indicate whether the digestive system is functioning normally. In some cases, a physical exam may reveal other conditions that could be causing symptoms, such as an intestinal blockage or infection.

Breath Test

A breath test is a non-invasive test used to diagnose lactose intolerance. The patient drinks a liquid containing lactose, and then the amount of hydrogen in their breath is measured over several hours.

Normally, very little hydrogen is produced during digestion, but when lactose is not properly digested, it can produce excess hydrogen gas. The breath test can detect this excess gas and provide a diagnosis of lactose intolerance. This test can be done in a doctor’s office or at a lab.

Related Article Uncovering the diagnosis of lactose intolerance

Blood Test

A blood test can also be used to diagnose lactose intolerance. The patient’s blood is tested for glucose levels before and after consuming a lactose-containing drink.

If the patient is lactose intolerant, their blood glucose levels will not rise significantly after consuming the drink, because their body is unable to digest the lactose and convert it to glucose. The blood test is less commonly used than the breath test, but it can still be an effective tool for diagnosing lactose intolerance.

Stool Acidity Test

A stool acidity test is another option for diagnosing lactose intolerance in infants and young children. The child’s stool is tested for acidity after consuming a lactose-containing drink.

If the stool is more acidic than normal, it may be a sign of lactose intolerance.

Lactose-Free Diet

If diagnostic testing confirms lactose intolerance, the doctor may recommend a lactose-free diet. This will involve avoiding all dairy products, as well as any other foods that contain lactose.

This may be a difficult adjustment, as lactose is found in many common foods, such as breads, cereals, and processed foods. However, many lactose-free alternatives are available, such as lactose-free milk and cheese, and many people with lactose intolerance are able to live normal, healthy lives by following a lactose-free diet.

Conclusion

Diagnosing lactose intolerance involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specialized testing. A breath test or blood test can confirm the diagnosis, and a lactose-free diet is often recommended to manage symptoms.

While lactose intolerance can cause discomfort and inconvenience, it is a relatively common condition that can be managed effectively with dietary changes.