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Why does hydrogen in exaled breath indicate lactose intolerance?
GaleEncyofMedicine
Hydrogen is absorbed from the intestines and carried by the bloodstream into the lungs where it is exhaled. Normally there is very little hydrogen detectable in the breath, so its presence indicates faulty digestion of lactose.
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How is lactose intolerance measured in children?
To identify lactose intolerance in children and adults, the hydrogen breath test is used to measure the amount of hydrogen in the breath.
What does the breath testing for lactose intolerance involve?
The patient drinks a beverage containing lactose and the breath is analyzed at regular intervals. If undigested lactose in the large intestine (colon) is fermented by bacteria, various gases are produced.
Does lactose intolerance cause bad breath?
no. as usually if not caused by gum disease, bad breath is caused by a gas from the stomach. someone who is lactose intolerant would have bad breath if consuming dairy produce as it would cause a stomach upset
where can i take a breathalyzer test before weight loss surgery?
I assume you are referring to a lactose breath hydrogen test? You will need to speak with your physician to see where you can get one done in your area, and if he feels it is necessary.
What is lactose intolerance and is it the same as a milk allergy?
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, found in animal milk (including human milk, which, in fact, has about twice has much lactose as cow's milk). An enzyme called lactase is required to digest lactose. When this enzyme is missing, the following symptoms may occur: abdominal cramps, diarrhea, gas, a feeling of bloatedness. Symptoms may occur within an hour, or up to several days later. The intensity of symptoms varies widely. DIAGNOSIS Lactose intolerance can be self-diagnosed by eliminating milk and dairy products from your diet for two weeks, then reintroducing milk (a glass or two), and seeing what happens. Your doctor can administer a couple of tests to confirm lactose intolerance (basically involves drinking a sweet drink containing a lot of lactose on an empty stomach and monitoring blood levels of glucose -- no rise in glucose means the lactose is not being absorbed; the other involves checking breath levels of hydrogen). TREATMENT If you are diagnosed with lactose intolerance, you have a variety of options. Lactase is available by prescription (Lactaid), and can be added to milk (drops) or taken with food containing dairy products (tablets). Some people may have adverse reactions to this medication, however (in tablet form -- the reaction is believed to be allergic. Drops seem to be ok.). Lactose reduced milk and cheeses are available in some areas. Aged cheeses, yogurt and sour cream may be tolerable (most of the lactose has already been converted). You can find your level of lactose tolerance by either cutting out dairy products entirely and slowing working them back into your diet, or you can slowly eliminate them until you stop having difficulties. Tables indicating lactose content for milk and milk products are available. Some believe that lactose intolerance is, in fact, the human (and mammalian) norm, rather than an aberration, citing in support statistics that indicate most of the world's population is lactose intolerant (Europeans and those of European descent being the exceptions), and the tendency to lactose intolerance with increased age. MILK ALLERGY Milk allergy, on the other hand, involves an allergic reaction to one or more of the proteins in milk (casein, lactalbumin, lactoglobulins). An allergic reaction to milk may include: eczema, rash, mucous buildup, wheezing, asthma, rhinitis, pneumonia, anaphylaxis. The type and severity of symptoms varies widely. Because a true milk allergy may involve mast cells in the mouth and throat, it is possible to have an allergic reaction to milk or milk products before they are digested. It is possible to be both lactose intolerant AND allergic to milk. DIAGNOSIS The bad news is, diagnostic tests for milk allergy -- for food allergy in general -- are hit or miss. One source I have claims that a negative is accurate, but false positives are common. Another states that the extracts used in allergy tests tend to lose potency quickly so you might test negative on a test and STILL be allergic. Elimination diets are the best test you have available to you. If you suspect milk allergy, eliminate milk and milk products for two or more weeks, and see what happens. If you can convince your physician to conduct a double-blind test on you, you may be able to confirm the diagnosis. TREATMENT The worse news is, no cure is available -- avoidance, and symptom control via antihistamines, etc. are the best you can do. (For now, at least, this is true of all food allergy, at least according to the conservative medical community -- but research is ongoing. I have a reference to a study by the National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine in Denver which claims successful desensitization to peanuts in people who had a life history of allergic reaction to them. There's a dim hope, at least.) [The National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine in Denver has prepared a report about successful desensitization to peanuts in patients with a life history of allergic reaction to them. The address for that group is: National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Public Affairs Department, 1400 Jackson Street, Denver, CO 80206 303-398-1079, 800-222-LUNG (5864)] Lactose intolerance is the inability to break down the sugar in milk, lactose. There are varying levels of lactose intolerance, based upon how much of the enzyme "Lactase" your body has. The more it has, the better the ability of your body to break down the sugar, and the more tolerance you have. Since cow milk is not a natural thing for humans to drink (nor any milk past age 2), it makes sense that people will develop primary lactose intolerance over their life time and it is not uncommon for adults to develop the symptoms of lactose intolerance which include but are not limited to; diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, gas and nausia. If a young child has any of these symptoms, contact their doctor, as it is possible to be born lacking lactase.
Does bad breath indicate cancer?
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by various factors, and it is not typically a direct sign of cancer. However, in some cases, certain types of cancer or cancer treatments can contribute to changes in breath odour. Here are some points to consider: Oral Health: The most common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene, which can lead to bacteria buildup in the mouth, gum disease, and dental problems. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help maintain oral health and reduce bad breath. Diet: Foods with strong odours, such as garlic, onions, and certain spices, can temporarily cause bad breath. Poorly balanced diets or fasting can also contribute to changes in breath odor. Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol consumption can lead to dry mouth and contribute to bad breath. They are also risk factors for certain types of cancer, including oral, throat, and lung cancer. Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions, such as respiratory infections, sinusitis, acid reflux (GERD), diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and metabolic disorders, can cause bad breath. Treating the underlying condition often improves breath odor. Cancer and Treatment: While bad breath itself is not a direct indicator of cancer, certain cancers or cancer treatments can affect breath odor. For example, oral cancers, throat cancers, and cancers of the digestive tract can sometimes cause changes in breath smell due to factors like tissue damage, infection, or metabolic changes. It's important to note that bad breath alone is usually not a cause for immediate concern regarding cancer. However, if bad breath is persistent, accompanied by other symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, or changes in voice, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and appropriate testing if needed. Maintaining good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use, and seeking prompt medical attention for persistent or concerning symptoms can help manage bad breath and address underlying health issues effectively.
What has the author Bette Lemperle written?
Bette Lemperle has written: 'Lactlose breath hydrogen test for the diagnosis of lactose malabsorption' -- subject(s): Lactose intolerance, Diagnosis 'Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for acute cerebral edema' -- subject(s): Cerebral edema 'External counterpulsation' -- subject(s): Artificial Circulation, Blood, Circulation, Artificial 'p13sCOb2s' -- subject(s): Fat, Absorption (Physiology), Metabolism 'Hyperbaric oxygen for treatment of chronic peripheral vascular insufficiency' -- subject(s): Hyperbaric oxygenation, Peripheral circulation 'Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for treatment of crush injury and acute traumatic peripheral ischemia' -- subject(s): Hyperbaric oxygenation, Ischemia
Lactose tolerance tests?
DefinitionLactose tolerance tests measure the ability of your intestines to break down lactose, a type of sugar found in milk and other dairy products.See also: Lactose intoleranceAlternative NamesHydrogen breath test for lactose toleranceHow the test is performedTwo common methods include:Lactose tolerance blood testHydrogen breath testThe hydrogen breath test is the preferred method. It measures the amount of hydrogen in the air you breathe out.You will be asked to breathe into a balloon-type container. Then, you will be asked to drink a flavored liquid containing lactose. Samples of your breath are collected at set time periods and the hydrogen level is checked. Normally, very little hydrogen is in your breath. But if your body has trouble breaking down and absorbing lactose, hydrogen levels increase.The lactose tolerance blood test looks for glucose in your blood. Your body creates glucose when lactose breaks down. For this test, several blood samples will be taken before and after you drink the lactose solution described above. For information on how a blood sample is obtained, see venipuncture.How to prepare for the testYou should not eat for 8 hours before the test. Avoid strenuous exercise for 8 hours before the test.How the test will feelThere should not be any pain or discomfort when giving a breath sample.When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.Why the test is performedYour doctor may order these tests if you have signs of lactose intolerance.Normal ValuesThe breath test is considered normal if the increase in hydrogen is less than 12 parts per million over your fasting (pre-test) level.The blood test is considered normal if your glucose level rises more than 30 mg/dL within 2 hours of drinking the lactose solution. A rise of 20-30 mg/dL is inconclusive.Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.What abnormal results meanAbnormal results may be a sign of lactose intolerance.A breath test result that shows a rise in hydrogen content of 12 parts per million (ppm) over your pre-test level is considered positive, and means you may have trouble breaking down lactose.The blood test is considered abnormal if your glucose level rises less than 20 mg/dL within 2 hours of drinking the lactose solution.An abnormal test should be followed by a glucose tolerance test to rule out a problem with the body's ability to absorb glucose.What the risks areVeins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:Excessive bleedingFainting or feeling light-headedHematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)ReferencesHogenauer C, Hammer HF. Maldigestion and malabsorption. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006:chap 98.
What are the effects of hydrogen?
if you breath it in it will harm the human parts of youur body.
What does sulfur and hydrogen combined make?
is a colourless gas that we breath. is in the air and has no colour
Is hydrogen dangerous to inhale?
Hydrogen in not a 'toxic' gas, however if you breath air that has a very high concentration of hydrogen you would asphyxiate by starving your body of oxygen.
Lactose intolerance?
DefinitionLactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose (a type of sugar found in milk and other dairy products).Alternative NamesLactase deficiency; Milk intolerance; Disaccharidase deficiency; Dairy product intoleranceCauses, incidence, and risk factorsLactose intolerance happens when the small intestine does not make enough of the enzyme lactase. Babies' bodies make this enzyme so they can digest milk, including breast milk. Before humans became dairy farmers, most people did not continue to drink milk, so their bodies did not make lactase after early childhood.Lactose intolerance is more common in Asian, African, African-American, Native American, and Mediterranean populations than it is among northern and western Europeans.Lactose intolerance can begin at different times in life. In Caucasians, it usually starts to affect children older than age 5. In African-Americans, lactose intolerance often occurs as early as age 2.Lactose intolerance is very common in adults and is not dangerous. Approximately 30 million American adults have some amount of lactose intolerance by age 20.Lactose intolerance is sometimes seen in premature babies. Children who were born at full term generally do not show signs of lactose intolerance until they are at least 3 years old.Not having enough lactase (lactase deficiency) may also occur as a result of intestinal diseases such as celiac sprue and gastroenteritis, or after bowel surgery. Temporary lactase deficiency can result from viral and bacterial infections, especially in children, when the cells lining the intestine are injured.SymptomsAbdominal bloatingAbdominal crampsDiarrheaFloating stoolsFoul-smelling stoolsGas (flatulence)MalnutritionNauseaSlow growthWeight lossSymptoms often occur after you eat or drink milk products, and are often relieved by not eating or drinking milk products. Large doses of milk products may cause worse symptoms.Signs and testsEnteroscopyLactose-hydrogen breath testLactose tolerance testTest for stool-reducing substancesTreatmentRemoving milk products from the diet usually improves the symptoms. However, not having milk in the diet can lead to a shortage of calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, and protein. Add other sources of calcium to the diet if you remove milk products.Most people with low lactase levels can tolerate 2 - 4 ounces of milk at one time (up to one-half cup). Larger (8 oz.) servings may cause problems for people with some amount of milk intolerance.These milk products may be easier to digest:Buttermilk and cheeses (they have less lactose than milk)Fermented milk products, such as yogurtGoat's milk (but drink it with meals, and make sure it is supplemented with essential amino acids and vitamins if you give it to children)Ice cream, milkshakes, and aged or hard cheesesLactose-free milk and milk productsLactase-treated cow's milk for older children and adultsSoy formulas for infants younger than 2 yearsSoy or rice milk for toddlersYou can add lactase enzymes to regular milk or take them in capsule or chewable tablet form.You may need to find new ways to get calcium into your diet (you need 1,200 - 1,500 mg of calcium each day):Take calcium supplementsEat foods that have more calcium (leafy greens, oysters, sardines, canned salmon, shrimp, and broccoli)Drink orange juice that contains added calciumRead food labels. Lactose is also found in some non-milk products -- including some beers.Expectations (prognosis)Symptoms usually go away when milk products are removed from the diet.ComplicationsWeight loss and malnutrition are possible complications.Calling your health care providerCall your health care provider if:You or your child has symptoms of lactose intolerance and you need information on food substitutes.Your symptoms get worse or do not improve with treatment, or you develop new symptoms.PreventionThere is no known way to prevent lactose intolerance.If you have the condition, avoiding or restricting the amount of milk products in your diet can reduce or prevent symptoms.ReferencesInformation from your family doctor. Lactose intolerance: what you should know. Am Fam Physician. 2006;74:1927-1928.Hogenauer C, Hammer HF. Maldigestion and Malabsorption. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006: chap98.
