Lactose Breath Test in Tulsa, OK
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Find a ProviderWhat is a hydrogen breath test?
There are multiple reasons a hydrogen breath test is recommended by your Tulsa, OK GI provider. The test can be used to:
- Detect the presence of an overgrowth of hydrogen-producing bacteria in your colon
- Identify malabsorption and digestion issues, including lactose, sucrose, fructose, and sorbitol intolerance
- Identify problems with the passage of food through your bowel
The bacteria in your colon digest sugars and carbohydrates and use them as fuel. During this process, some of the sugars and carbohydrates are converted into gases, most commonly hydrogen. Some of this hydrogen is eliminated in your breath.
In a healthy digestive system, sugars and carbohydrates are predominantly digested and absorbed in the small intestine. Very little reaches the colon, so only small amounts of gas are produced by the bacteria there. If larger amounts of sugar or carbohydrates reach the colon or hydrogen-producing bacteria over-populate the colon, larger amounts of gas are formed. If you suspect that you could benefit from a hydrogen breath test, request a consultation at your nearest Adult Gastroenterology Associates location.
Who needs a hydrogen breath test?
A hydrogen breath test may be recommended for you if your Adult Gastroenterology Associates provider suspects that the GI symptoms you are experiencing, such as bloating or abdominal pain, could be a sign of a larger GI issue. They could suspect a carbohydrate or sugar intolerance, overly rapid passage of food through your bowel, or bacterial overgrowth in your colon.
You would not be a suitable candidate for a hydrogen breath test if you have postprandial hypoglycemia (low blood sugar after eating) of unknown cause. Fructose must not be used in your test if hereditary fructose intolerance is suspected.
What should I expect during my hydrogen breath test?
The hydrogen breath test will last a few hours. You will be asked to breathe into a breath collection bag at the beginning of the test and then given a sugar solution to drink. You will then have to give samples of your breath every 15 minutes.
You will be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before the test and will have to follow a special diet a day or two before the test. Your provider could recommend you avoid or stop taking certain medications for a period of time beforehand, including antibiotics. Your Tulsa, OK GI provider will discuss instructions for you to follow prior to your breath test at your consultation.
Find the cause of your GI symptoms
At Adult Gastroenterology Associates, our GI providers are dedicated to helping you find the cause of your GI symptoms. A hydrogen breath test can be used to diagnose a number of GI conditions like lactose intolerance, IBS, or an overgrowth of bacteria in your small intestine. Our GI providers can help diagnose your condition. If you believe you are a good candidate for a hydrogen breath test or are seeking the cause of your GI symptoms, contact a Tulsa, OK location in your community to request a consultation today.
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Dr. Conkling has been my Gastroenterologist for many years now. He is the only Doctor I have that literally takes the time to visit with me about my medical history, my current physical health and future plans to help me through my good health journey. I truly know that he saved my life AND helped me have a better quality of life, by finding and treating my medical issues. I appreciate being heard and I appreciate how you discuss medical treatment and procedures with me, giving me the opportunity to choose from options that work best for me. You are straight forward and that is helpful. Dr. Conkling has no problem speaking directly with me over the phone, if there are questions or conversations best addressed by him. He puts me at ease and I trust that he has my best interest at heart. Thank you, Dr. Conkling, for treating me like a human being. Unfortunately it's hard to find this type of consistent caring medical environment these days. Dr. Conkling provides a safe place where you feel as if you are working as a team. I leave feeling confident that I'm in the right place. Keep doing what you do, Sir. You are one of the best for sure!!!! Many blessings. Sadiqa LaNear
Outstanding treatment for treatment & testing. I believe my third time for scope & everyone was Excellent from Reception-Nurses- Doctors. Best medical practice I have had to use. All on time but very friendly
It was a very pleasant and informative office visit. Dr. Conking explained everything in detail and in an understandable fashion. And left no questions unanswered.
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