When your upset stomach turns into a chronic condition, you may wonder if it is due to something you ate or an intestinal issue. Two examples of conditions that cause stomach upset, yet affect the body in different ways are irritable bowel syndrome and lactose intolerance. A knowledge of these conditions can help you to recognize symptoms that can lead to increased treatment options.
Significance
Irritable bowel syndrome occurs when the intestines do not work properly and food moves either too fast or too slowly in the intestinal tract, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body does not produce the enzyme lactase, which helps to break down foods that contain lactose, such as milk and other dairy products, according to Go Ask Alice, a health resource from Columbia University.
Symptoms
A number of unpleasant symptoms, such as bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation can result from irritable bowel syndrome, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Symptoms for lactose intolerance can be similar, including gas, bloating and diarrhea when you consume foods that contain lactose, according to Go Ask Alice. While they may have similar symptoms, irritable bowel syndrome is most often brought on by triggers, such as stress, a diet low in fiber or after eating foods that irritate the intestinal lining.
Prevalence
An estimated 10 to 15 percent of the American population is affected by irritable bowel syndrome, according to Medical News Today. An estimated one-fourth of patients with irritable bowel syndrome also are lactose intolerant. This does not mean these conditions are mutually exclusive. An estimated 25 percent of the American population experiences some form of lactose intolerance.
Diagnosis
While there is no definitive method to diagnose either condition, a good knowledge of when and what kind of symptoms you experience may help your physician to make a determination, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. You may wish to keep a food and symptom diary, which helps you observe patterns of stomach upset.
Treatment
A physician may recommend lifestyle modifications to treat irritable bowel syndrome, according to Lactose Intolerant. These include eating smaller meals, reducing stress and avoiding foods known to irritate the stomach lining, such as rye, barley, caffeine and/or alcohol. Over-the-counter medications to reduce stomach discomfort and diarrhea also may be helpful. If you are lactose intolerant, avoiding foods that contain lactose or choose lactose-reduced variations can help to reduce symptoms. You also can take lactase enzyme supplements that mimic the action of the body's natural enzymes to digest foods.
