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.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.
Main Article on Lactose Intolerance Symptoms and Signs
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Lactose Intolerance Symptoms and Signs
- Abdominal Cramping
- Abdominal Distension
- Abdominal Pain
-
Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Gurgling Sounds in the Abdomen
- Loose Stools
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal Cramping
- Abdominal Distension
- Abdominal Pain
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Gurgling Sounds in the Abdomen
- Loose Stools
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Examples of Medications for Lactose Intolerance Symptoms and Signs
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