Diagnosis of Lactose intolerance

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Because the symptoms of lactose intolerance and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are very similar, misdiagnosis between the two conditions is common.

If you think you might have a problem with lactose intolerance, you should visit your G.P.

Your GP may suggest further tests to find out how much lactase your body is producing and what might be causing the deficiency.

Other tests include:

A drink of lactose solution followed by a breath test. Your body produces hydrogen if the lactose is fermenting rather than being broken down
A drink of lactose solution followed by a blood-sugar test. Your blood-sugar levels will only rise slowly if your body is having difficulty digesting the lactose
Testing your stool (faeces; bowel movement). The stool test is often used to check babies for lactose intolerance