Lactose intolerance is a digestive disorder that affects the ability to fully digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. This can result in uncomfortable symptoms, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after eating or drinking dairy. Understanding the importance of an accurate diagnosis through comprehensive lactose intolerance testing is essential for effective management of the condition.
You can learn more here about lactose intolerance and what testing for the condition involves.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance happens when your body cannot break down and absorb lactose. Lactose is a type of sugar in milk and dairy products. According to The Cleveland Clinic, it is a common problem, affecting approximately 65% of adults worldwide.
The condition occurs because the body does not make enough lactase, an enzyme produced in the small intestine, needed to break down the lactose. This prevents it being processed and absorbed into the bloodstream via the intestinal lining. If the lactose is not broken down properly, it moves into the colon instead. This causes normal bacteria in the colon to interact with the undigested lactose, resulting in signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance.
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance
Individuals with lactose intolerance often experience symptoms after consuming dairy products. These symptoms usually begin from 30 minutes to two hours after eating or drinking foods that contain lactose. Common symptoms of lactose intolerance include:
- Bloating
- Stomach pain
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Nausea (which may sometimes cause vomiting)
Symptoms vs. Diagnosis
Feeling bloated or having a stomach ache after drinking milk might mean you are lactose intolerant. However, having symptoms is not the same as having a professional diagnosis. To be sure, you need to get tested. Misinterpreting symptoms and not seeking proper testing can lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions and potential nutritional deficiencies.
You should make an appointment with your healthcare provider if you frequently have symptoms of lactose intolerance after eating dairy foods. This is especially important if you are worried you are not getting enough calcium in your diet.
How is Lactose Intolerance Diagnosed?
There are two main tests for detecting lactose intolerance:
1. Hydrogen Breath Test
This test measures how much hydrogen is in your breath. For the test, you will drink a lactose solution and then breathe into a machine every 20 minutes for about 3 hours. High levels of hydrogen mean your body is not digesting lactose properly. Your provider will let you know how to prepare for this test. You will need to fast for 12 hours prior to the test and avoid eating high-fiber foods the day before.
2. Lactose Tolerance Test
This test is conducted to see how your body handles lactose. During the test, you will drink a liquid that contains high levels of lactose. After 2 hours, blood samples are taken to measure the amount of glucose in your bloodstream. If your glucose level does not rise, it indicates your body is not properly digesting and absorbing the lactose solution.
Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Knowing for sure if you are lactose intolerant helps you manage your diet better. It also helps you avoid nutritional problems. Without enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet, your bones could become weak, putting you at increased risk of fractures and other health complications.
Testing not only confirms the presence of lactose intolerance, but also helps distinguish it from other gastrointestinal disorders. This ensures that you receive the most suitable advice and treatment that are tailored to your exact requirements.
Managing Lactose Intolerance
The Mayo Clinic states that in some cases, lactose intolerance may result from an underlying health condition. In this situation, treating the underlying cause may resolve symptoms successfully, but this could take time. For other causes, a low-lactose diet may be necessary to prevent symptoms.
Here are some tips to reduce the amount of lactose in your diet:
- Limit milk and other dairy products. Instead, try lactose-free or lactose-reduced milk and ice cream, as well as dairy alternatives like almond or soy milk.
- Always check food labels to see if they contain lactose.
- Only have small servings of dairy products in meals.
- Take lactase enzyme supplements or add a liquid or powder lactase enzyme to milk to help you digest dairy products more easily.
How North Shore Gastroenterology Can Help
At North Shore Gastroenterology, we specialize in digestive health. We diagnose and treat a range of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and offer testing for lactose intolerance and other digestive issues. Our expert providers develop personalized care plans to help you feel better and manage your symptoms effectively.
Accurate testing plays a crucial role in effectively managing lactose intolerance. It helps both healthcare providers and individuals ensure a balanced and comprehensive dietary approach.
Lactose Intolerance Testing Near Me in Westlake and Brooklyn, Ohio
If you have symptoms of a digestive disorder, schedule a consultation with one of the expert GI doctors at North Shore Gastroenterology. We have two convenient locations to serve you in Westlake and Brooklyn, Ohio. Call us today at (440) 808-1212 or you can use our convenient online form to request an appointment.
Understanding lactose intolerance can help you make better choices for your health. Reach out to North Shore Gastroenterology for expert care and support.