Lactose Intolerance Testing Melbourne

Amazingly, just one third of adults can digest milk. An enzyme, ‘lactase’ is needed to digest milk and if your body can’t produce enough you will become ‘lactose intolerant’. Your small intestine is where the lactase enzyme is produced and if it isn’t doing its job, you will not be able to break down such enzymes.

Usually, lactase transforms milk sugar into galactose and glucose, two simple sugars. These are absorbed through the intestinal lining into the bloodstream. However, if the enzymes in your food goes to your colon rather than being digested, the normal bacteria in your colon interacts with undigested lactose and you end up with the symptoms of intolerance.

Are You at Risk?

If you need our services for a Lactose Intolerance Test just follow these easy steps:

Step 1. Make an appointment by calling 9781 5959   

Step 2. Print Referral Form and take it to your Doctor

Step 3. Click here to Read the Appointments Page

The most effective lactose intolerance tests are Hydrogen Breath Tests (HBT), performed by  professionals like those at Direct Endoscopy. The test works by analysing the hydrogen level in your breath. It is non-invasive and extremely safe.

Are You Lactose Intolerant?

The most common symptoms of lactose intolerance are:

• Bloating
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhoea

However, these are also common symptoms for other problems and the best way to get an accurate answer on whether or not you are lactose intolerant is to get testing done. The reason we develop these symptoms is that while we begin life with plenty of lactase so we can digest milk, the production drops off as we get older.

However, as people age, the production drops off dramatically, making it difficult for adults to digest milk. This can be due to genetics, commonly found in people of Asian, Mediterranean or Southern European descent.

Because there are so many circumstances and conditions that present with similar symptoms, the only way to determine whether you’re affected by this condition is through testing. While there are a number of test ‘kits’ that claim to be able to detect lactose intolerance, these tests are often unreliable – and not exactly based on solid science.

Hydrogen Breath Tests

The most effective tests available are Hydrogen Breath Tests (HBT), carried out by a professional like those here at Direct Endoscopy. This test works by analysing the amount of hydrogen detected in your breath. When hydrogen gas is produced from the intestinal bacteria affected by the lactose, some of this hydrogen is absorbed into the bloodstream and carried to the lungs.

Testing positive to a HBT simply means that it’s likely that some or all of your digestive symptoms are likely a result of your inability to digest certain sugars. It’s recommended that following a positive test you seek out a professional dietetic assessment – this will ensure you’re equipped with the best information to manage this condition with ease.

Direct Endoscopy has been helping the people of Melbourne for over 20 years, and we’re pleased to offer Hydrogen Breath Tests for Lactose Intolerance/Malabsorption at any of our three convenient locations, or at our Central Laboratory in Hampton. Our state of the art facilities coupled with our warm and caring staff guarantee you’ll feel comfortable and confident during your time here.

Only $50 Each Test with a Medicare Rebate

As part of the huge range of diagnostic services Direct Endoscopy is happy to offer a selection of hydrogen breath tests for the investigation of intolerance to common dietary ingredients, such as fructose.

Any potential concerns should be discussed with your doctor or contact Direct Endoscopy for more information about lactose intolerance.

Frequently Asked Questions