Lactose Intolerance Symptoms

Can include:

• Diarrhoea
• Bloated stomach
• Stomach pains and/or cramps
• Flatulence
• Nausea

The amount of lactose required to cause these symptoms varies from person to person. However, generally, the severity of the symptoms depends upon: the amount of lactose ingested and how much lactase enzyme they have.

Lactose intolerance can cause symptoms similar to irritable bowel syndrome (a chronic digestive problem) and milk protein intolerance.

Gastroenteritis, a condition in which the intestinal lining is inflamed can be followed by temporary lactose intolerance. This is an example of secondary lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance after gastroenteritis can complicate things, especially in children as the lactose intolerance can cause watery diarrhoea. Watery diarrhoea can be dangerous in children as it can lead to rapid dehydration. This is usually resolved by giving rehydration solution over 24 hours.

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