Lactose Tolerance Tests: MedlinePlus Medical Test

What do the results mean?

If you had a hydrogen breath test, your results may show:

• An increased level of hydrogen after drinking lactose. This probably means you have lactose intolerance.
• Little or no increase in hydrogen after drinking lactose. This means your symptoms are probably not caused by lactose intolerance. You may need more tests to figure out the cause of your symptoms.

If you had a glucose blood test, your results may show:

• Your glucose levels did not increase after drinking lactose. This probably means you have lactose intolerance.
• Your glucose levels increased. This means your symptoms are probably not caused by lactose intolerance. You may need more tests to figure out the cause of your symptoms.

If you are diagnosed with lactose intolerance, you should be able to manage your condition by limiting or avoiding foods with lactose, such as milk and cheese. Some people with lactose intolerance can have a limited amount of dairy without symptoms. Other people may need to completely avoid lactose. Taking a supplement that contains lactase may also help manage your condition.

Be sure to talk to your health care provider about planning your diet and/or taking lactase supplements.

Learn more about laboratory tests, references ranges, understanding results.