Lactose Intolerance: Symptoms & Signs

Lactose intolerance is a condition in which the body is unable to fully digest lactose, a form of natural sugar found in milk. Lactose intolerance is not the same thing as a food allergy and is a relatively common condition. It is more common in Native Americans and people of Asian, African, and South American descent than among people of European ancestry. The condition results from a deficiency of lactase, an enzyme made in the small intestine that breaks down lactose. Symptoms occur when an affected person consumes milk or dairy products. Symptoms and signs can include

• abdominal pain,
• bloating,
• vomiting (throwing up),
• diarrhea, and
• gas.

The degree or severity of symptoms can vary among affected people.

Other lactose intolerance symptoms and signs

• Abdominal Cramping
• Abdominal Distension
• Abdominal Pain
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Gurgling Sounds in the Abdomen
• Loose Stools
• Nausea
• Vomiting

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