Lactose intolerance does not cause constipation, but just the opposite, it can cause diarrhea. A condition that is commonly mistaken for lactose intolerance is irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS. IBS and lactose intolerance share similar digestive symptoms and IBS symptoms are commonly triggered by consuming dairy products. If you notice that every time you ingest dairy you become constipated, you need to make an appointment with a gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist is the most qualified medical professional to diagnose your condition.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance causes diarrhea, stomach cramping, bloating, gas and abdominal pain after consuming dairy products. Lactose intolerance occurs when you cannot digest lactose, the sugar in milk, because the small intestine does not make enough of the enzyme lactase, which helps the body absorb food. The condition is mostly common among adults and certain ethic groups such as Hispanics, Africans, Native Americans and Asians. Sometimes, a gastric illness like the stomach flu can cause temporary lactose intolerance. Symptoms of lactose intolerance occur because bacteria interact with undigested lactose when it reaches the colon.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a digestive condition that either causes chronic constipation or diarrhea. The cause of IBS is unclear, but is most likely caused by improper impulses in the nerves of the intestinal muscles. Once digested material reaches your colon, it slowly moves towards the anus, forced by muscle contracts along the lining of the intestine. If the communication between the brain and the nerves in your colon are erratic, your bowel movements are irregular and inconsistent. IBS is incurable but manageable though diet and lifestyle changes.
Symptoms
Lactose intolerance and IBS cause similar symptoms after consuming dairy products. Theses symptoms include stomach cramping, pain, gas, bloating and indigestion. If you've never been diagnosed with IBS, it would be an understandable conclusion that you're lactose intolerant, but lactose intolerance doesn't cause constipation. However, if you are diagnosed with lactose intolerance, decreasing or removing milk products from your diet will usually improve symptoms. You can also take lactase enzyme supplements to relieve symptoms.
Testing and Treatment
A gastroenterologist will perform various tests on the stool to determine the cause of the constipation. If you are diagnosed with IBS, increasing your fiber intake may help promote normal bowel movements. Your doctor will likely recommend eliminating all dairy products from your diet. Doing so will require that you ingest foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as fortified orange juice, broccoli and soy products. Other treatments for IBS include regular exercise, a routine meal schedule and reducing the amount of stress in your life. Medication may be used if these other approaches don't improve your symptoms.
