Lactose intolerance is an uncomfortable condition where your digestive tract is unable to properly digest the sugar found in cow's milk. Although the severity of symptoms can vary between each individual, most reactions from lactose intolerance are the same. Lactose intolerance is a common condition among adults that is treated primarily by a modified diet and avoidance. If you suspect that you're lactose intolerant, see your doctor before attempting to treat the condition. Do not diagnose yourself based solely on your reactions.
Cause
Lactose intolerance reactions are caused by the inability of the small intestine to produce enough lactase, the enzyme needed to properly breakdown lactose, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Every person has a certain degree of lactose that they can tolerate. Lactose is complex sugar that the digestive system breaks down into glucose and galactose. These are simple sugars that the body can easily absorb. When your body cannot digest the lactose, your intestines become inflamed and irritated, which leads to certain reactions.
Reactions
All of the reactions from lactose intolerance are related to the digestive system. After consuming foods or beverages with lactose you will experience symptoms within 20 to 30 minutes, according to MedlinePlus. The most common reactions include gas, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, foul-smelling stools and stools that float. The reactions do not cause any permanent damage to your digestive system and should subside once the lactose is eliminated from the body. If you develop other reactions aside from the digestive system, you may have a milk allergy.
Complications
Severe reactions to lactose can cause excessive diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration, malnourishment and weight loss. If you are diagnosed with lactose intolerance, you need to avoid consuming products that contain lactose, use milk substitutes or take a lactase enzyme supplement to prevent any complications. If you develop diarrhea that lasts for more than one day, call your doctor. The presence of blood in your stool is an alarming symptom of a more serious condition.
Treatment
Lactose intolerance reactions are treated with preventative measures. MayoClinic.com states that you can purchase dairy products that are lactose-free. These products have the lactase enzyme added to them during the manufacturing process. You can use a lactase supplement, taken at the first bite of a dairy product. The supplement contains the needed enzymes to help your body digest the lactose. Dairy and lactose-free substitutes are available for consumption, such as rice, almond or soy-based milks and cheeses. Once symptoms develop, the only treatment to alleviate them is to wait for your body to eliminate the lactose from the system.
