Lactose Breath Test

This test evaluates for Lactose Maldigestion which leads to poor tolerance of milk products.

WHAT OCCURS DURING THE EXAMINATION?

Do not eat slowly digesting foods like beans, bran or other high fiber cereals the day before testing.  You should fast after midnight with nothing to eat but are allowed to drink water only until the exam. You may brush your teeth the day of the test. You should not smoke, sleep, or exercise vigorously for at least ½ hour before, or at any time during testing. At home, three hours before your scheduled breath test, drink 12oz of whole or 2% milk. You will then report to the office and will be asked to breath into a small machine one time. The exam takes about 5 minutes. You will get your results before you leave.

ARE THERE ANY POSSIBLY COMPLICATIONS?

If you have the lactose maldigestion condition, your symptoms may be reproduced occasionally, others have their usual abdominal discomfort unrelated to lactose.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE

Some of your usual gas, bloating, or abdominal discomfort may occur.