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 Clark is very detailed and personable. I was impressed with all the staff and how efficient they were. I was seen on time and felt like I had plenty of time with Dr Clark without feeling rushed. Great experience.
I just had a wonderful visit with Tuesday Guthery! She listens, validated, and was funny and sweet! She also acknowledged my toddler! Most people ignore the tiny person in the room. They were so welcoming and so happy to see the little nugget! And when I left I instantly thought I would have to call with more questions about a future appointment and instead she called me and answered every question I might have had in a voicemail. She’s great!
I had a colonoscopy and an endoscopy. The staff were very kind and explained each detail of the procedures very well. It was painless and the whole process was much easier and comfortable than I thought it would be. This review is for the Glendale, AZ office.
Dr. Conkling is so great! He reassured me and said he would "take good care of me". He did an excellent job with my 2 procedures and called me to give me the results himself! You don't find many doctors like that any more! Thank you, Dr. Conkling!
Love everything & everyone there! Great attention to detail, knowledgeable staff that's so kind & helpful. Able to explain any questions I may have. Neither Dr Clark or staff have ever made me feel stupid or a problem. I thought I saw a good GI Dr, Dr Clark & staff have shown me a kinder, better experience. This is strange to say but..Bless you Doc C for the banding. You"re pure genius Relief for the first time in my life.Sorry you're stuck with me. Yay
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