Lactose sensitivity test
Lactose sensitivity test
LACTOSE INTOLERANCE
What is lactose intolerance?
Lactose is the carbohydrate (sugar) in milk. To digest it, we need a specific enzyme called lactase. If this enzyme is not present in sufficient quantities, digestion does not take place properly. When most dairy products are consumed, various symptoms can occur: bloating, flatulence, diarrhoea, abdominal pain/discomfort.
PRINCIPLE OF THE TEST
Assessing the presence of hydrogen Undigested lactose in the small intestine is transformed into a gas (hydrogen) by colonic bacteria.
This hydrogen then passes into the bloodstream to reach the lungs, where it is exhaled along with the air.
The lactose sensitivity test therefore involves assessing the presence of hydrogen in the air you breathe out.
The test is painless and risk-free.
The higher the level of hydrogen in the breath, the less efficient the digestion of lactose in the small intestine.
CARRYING OUT THE TEST
In one morning The test is carried out by appointment in an outpatient clinic from 9am to 12pm.
The patient must arrive on an empty stomach.
The patient blows into a device so that the nurse can measure the amount of hydrogen exhaled. They then take a known quantity of lactose (2 grams per kilo, with a maximum of 50 grams).
The nurse then measures the amount of hydrogen exhaled every 30 minutes for 3 to 4 hours.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF THIS TEST?
These tests do not involve any significant risk. The digestive symptoms you may experience (bloating, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea) are precisely those that your doctor wishes to investigate. Rare cases of discomfort following lactose ingestion have been described, with no serious consequences for patients. The tests are very sensitive for looking for bacterial proliferation in the intestine, lactose intolerance or fructose intolerance.
TEST RESULTS
At the end of the morning, a doctor from the gastroenterology unit will give you the results of the examination.
If lactose intolerance is diagnosed, you will be offered a consultation with a dietician to advise you on the diet to follow.
WHERE CAN YOU FIND US?
Gastroenterology Department - Appointments :
St-Elisabeth: 02/614.27.10.
St-Michel: 02/614.37.10.
Before going up for an examination, you must register at the consultation desk.
