Lactose intolerance results from low levels of lactase, the enzyme needed to break down lactose in the small intestine. Undigested lactose is fermented by bacteria in the colon, producing gas and fluid shifts that cause symptoms. Many adults develop some degree of lactose intolerance over time; severity varies and some people tolerate small amounts of dairy or certain products better than others.
Symptoms typically appear within hours of eating or drinking dairy and may include bloating, gas, cramping, and loose stools.
Call the office if you have ongoing diarrhea, weight loss, or abdominal pain despite avoiding lactose, or if you are unsure whether symptoms are due to lactose intolerance or another condition.
Seek emergency care for severe abdominal pain, significant dehydration, or blood in the stool; these are not typical for simple lactose intolerance and may signal another problem.
Evaluation often starts with a trial of reduced lactose intake. When needed, a hydrogen breath test or other tests can confirm lactose malabsorption and rule out other conditions.
Management focuses on identifying personal tolerance levels, adjusting the diet, using lactose-free products or enzyme supplements, and ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
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