How to Know the Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance?
October 8, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder where the body has difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. Recognizing the symptoms of lactose intolerance can help in identifying the condition. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Bloating and Gas:
- Feeling bloated and experiencing excessive gas after consuming dairy products.
- Diarrhea:
- Diarrhea shortly after consuming foods or drinks containing lactose.
- Abdominal Cramps or Pain:
- Abdominal discomfort, cramping, or pain after consuming lactose-containing foods.
- Nausea and Vomiting:
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting after consuming dairy products.
- Rumbling or Gurgling Sounds in the Stomach:
- Audible noises or gurgling sensations in the stomach after consuming lactose.
- Loose Stools:
- Passing loose, watery stools after consuming lactose.
- Flatulence:
- Experiencing increased flatulence (passing gas) after consuming lactose.
- Stomach Growling:
- Audible stomach growling or rumbling sounds after consuming lactose.
- Acid Reflux or Heartburn:
- Experiencing acid reflux or heartburn after consuming dairy products.
- Skin Reactions:
- Some individuals may experience skin issues like hives, itching, or rash after consuming lactose if they are lactose intolerant.
It’s important to note that the severity and onset of symptoms can vary from person to person based on the amount of lactose consumed and an individual’s level of lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose) activity.
If you suspect lactose intolerance, consider keeping a food diary to track your symptoms and the foods you’ve consumed. Additionally, you can try eliminating lactose-containing foods from your diet for a period to see if symptoms improve. However, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. A hydrogen breath test or lactose tolerance test may be conducted to confirm lactose intolerance.