Lactose Intolerance: An inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products.

What is the Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is a condition where the body cannot digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products.

This is due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down lactose.  

What are the symptom of Lactose Intolerance?

Symptoms of lactose intolerance typically appear within a few hours of consuming lactose-containing foods. These symptoms may include:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting

Who can suffer from Lactose Intolerance?

Anyone can develop lactose intolerance. However, it is more common in:

• Adults of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent
• Individuals with certain genetic conditions
• People who have undergone intestinal surgery
• Infants and young children

What are the type of Lactose Intolerance ?

There are three main types of lactose intolerance:

• Congenital lactose intolerance: This is a rare genetic condition present from birth.
• Primary lactose intolerance: This develops over time, often in adulthood.
• Secondary lactose intolerance: This is caused by an underlying condition, such as intestinal damage or infection.

Which diagnostic are available for the Lactose Intolerance ?

·  Hydrogen breath test: This involves measuring the amount of hydrogen gas in your breath after consuming a lactose-containing drink.

·  Stool acidity test: This measures the acidity of your stool after consuming a lactose-containing drink.

·  Elimination diet: This involves eliminating lactose-containing foods from your diet for a period of time and then reintroducing them to see if symptoms return.

What are the treatment of the Lactose Intolerance ?

There is no cure for lactose intolerance. However, symptoms can be managed by:

• Avoiding lactose-containing foods: This includes milk, cheese, yogurt, and butter.
• Choosing lactose-free alternatives: Many dairy products are now available in lactose-free versions.
• Taking lactase enzyme supplements: These can help break down lactose in your body.
• Consuming small amounts of lactose: Some individuals with lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts of lactose.

Which diet should I take ,if any ?

If you have lactose intolerance, you will need to avoid or limit lactose-containing foods. However, you can still consume calcium and other nutrients by choosing lactose-free alternatives or taking supplements.

Which speciality of the doctor will Lactose Intolerance?

A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in digestive disorders. They can diagnose and treat lactose intolerance.

In Lactose Intolerance completely curable ?

No, lactose intolerance is not completely curable. However, with proper dietary management and, if necessary, the use of lactase enzyme supplements, individuals with lactose intolerance can live a normal and healthy life.