Though lactose intolerance is more common in adults, toddlers and young children may also develop this type of food intolerance. Lactose intolerance is a condition in which your toddler's body doesn't make enough of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to help digest a sugar in milk called lactose. Talk with your child's pediatrician if your toddler exhibits any of the symptoms of lactose intolerance to ensure she receives appropriate care.
No Symptoms
Though lactose intolerance may begin to develop when your toddler is around the age of 2, the majority of children with this condition don't experience symptoms until late adolescence, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Toddlers who exhibit severe symptoms, such as hives or breathing problems, after ingesting milk may actually have a milk allergy rather than a lactase deficiency. If your toddler develops these more severe symptoms, take her to a doctor immediately for further care.
Diarrhea
Toddlers who are lactose intolerant may develop diarrhea within 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating a dairy product, MedlinePlus warns. You may notice that your toddler's stools appear loose, watery or discolored when you change her diaper. Toddlers who are potty-trained may need to go to the bathroom more frequently than usual or may accidentally soil their underwear due to uncontrollable bowel movement urges. If your child has diarrhea for more than a day or two, contact your pediatrician. Persistent diarrhea may increase your toddler's risk of becoming dehydrated.
Nausea, Cramping or Gas
Stomach irritation caused by dairy or milk products may induce symptoms of nausea, abdominal cramping or gas in your lactose intolerant toddler. Your child may complain that her tummy hurts -- particularly after consuming foods such as milk, cheese, yogurt or ice cream. Nausea and abdominal cramping may also contribute to a temporary loss of appetite. You may notice that your toddler isn't interested in eating her favorite meal or snack. Excess gas that accumulates in your child's intestines may cause her stomach to appear distended or swollen. Gassiness may also lead to sporadic abdominal pain, which may cause fussiness, irritability or unusual crying episodes. Though these symptoms of lactose intolerance typically diminish within a few hours after your child eats a dairy product, contact your doctor if these symptoms are severe or if your toddler begins vomiting.
