Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. People with lactose intolerance are unable to digest lactose, a type of sugar found in milk and other dairy products.

This inability results from a deficiency in the lactase enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down lactose in the body. If you are lactose intolerant, you may experience a range of symptoms after consuming foods that contain lactose. Here’s what you need to know about the symptoms of lactose intolerance.

What are the symptoms of lactose intolerance?

People with lactose intolerance may experience a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. The symptoms may occur immediately after consuming lactose-containing foods or may take several hours to develop.

Some of the common symptoms of lactose intolerance include:.

1. Abdominal Pain and Bloating

Abdominal pain and bloating are common symptoms of lactose intolerance. When the lactose in the food is not broken down properly, it can lead to the growth of bacteria in the gut, causing gas and bloating.

Abdominal pain can also occur due to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

2. Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common symptom of lactose intolerance. It occurs due to the increased production of water in the gut, which draws water from the body into the intestines.

This results in loose, watery stools that may be accompanied by cramping and abdominal pain.

3. Nausea and Vomiting

Lactose intolerance can also cause nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can occur due to the irritation and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and the production of excess gas, leading to discomfort and feeling of sickness.

4. Fatigue

People with lactose intolerance may also experience fatigue. This symptom occurs due to the difficulty in digesting lactose, leading to incomplete absorption of nutrients from the food.

This can also lead to a deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals, resulting in fatigue and weakness.

5. Headaches

Some people with lactose intolerance may experience headaches. The exact cause of this symptom is not clear, but it may be related to the inflammation in the gut and the production of excess gas and bloating.

6. Skin rash

Skin rash is a less common symptom but can occur in some people with lactose intolerance. The rash can appear as red, itchy bumps on the skin and is the result of an allergic reaction to lactose.

7. Respiratory Problems

In rare cases, lactose intolerance can lead to respiratory problems such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing.

This occurs when the lactose is not properly digested and is fermented by the gut bacteria, leading to the production of gas molecules that enter the bloodstream and cause respiratory symptoms.

8. Anxiety and Depression

Studies have shown that people with lactose intolerance are at an increased risk of developing anxiety and depression. This may be due to the discomfort and pain associated with the symptoms of lactose intolerance, leading to mood disorders.

9. Difficulty Gaining Weight

Due to the incomplete absorption of nutrients from the food, people with lactose intolerance may have difficulty gaining weight. This can also lead to nutrient deficiencies, which can impact overall health and wellness.

10. Lactose Intolerance in Babies and Children

Lactose intolerance can occur in babies and children but is relatively rare.

Babies may develop transient lactase deficiency, a temporary condition that occurs if the mother’s breast milk contains a high level of lactose or if the baby is born prematurely. Symptoms of lactose intolerance in babies and children include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and vomiting.

Conclusion

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. If you are lactose intolerant, you may experience a range of symptoms after consuming foods that contain lactose.

The symptoms may range from mild to severe and can occur immediately or several hours after eating. If you suspect you have lactose intolerance, it is recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.