D-xylose Absorption Test

Xylose Tolerance Test

Risks

Blood test

There is very little chance of a problem from having a blood sample taken from a vein.

• You may get a small bruise at the site. You can lower the risk of bruising by keeping pressure on the site for several minutes.
• In rare cases, the vein may become swollen after the blood sample is taken. This problem is called phlebitis. A warm compress can be used several times a day to treat this.
• Ongoing bleeding can be a problem for people with bleeding disorders. Aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), and other blood-thinning medicines can make bleeding more likely. If you have bleeding or clotting problems, or if you take blood-thinning medicine, tell your doctor before your blood sample is taken.

Urine test

This test can cause dehydration. Make sure that you drink enough fluids to replace lost liquids after you have completed the test.

Drinking the D-xylose preparation may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Tell your doctor if you have problems after drinking the D-xylose solution.

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Author:	Bets Davis, MFA	Last Updated: April 29, 2009
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
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