Lactose intolerance and giardia are two conditions that produce very similar symptoms, but they have different causes. Lactose intolerance is a chronic digestive condition that has no cure, while giardia is caused by a parasite and can result in digestive complications that last for two to four weeks. If you suddenly develop diarrhea, bloating, gas and stomach cramping, talk with your doctor about being tested for both conditions to determine which one is causing your symptoms.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is primarily related to the consumption of dairy products. Lactose is the sugar found in milk that needs the enzyme lactase to properly digest it. For that reason, this condition is also called lactase deficiency because your body stops making enough lactase to break down the lactose. Symptoms from lactose intolerance will only develop when you ingest dairy products and will not last longer than a few hours. This condition is life-long but it does not cause any damage to your body.
Giardia
Giardia is one of the main causes of diarrhea in the United States and is typically acquired from drinking contaminated water, according to Kids Health. Children are three times more likely to develop symptoms from giardia. Giardia is a parasite that can survive most water purification systems in the United States. The most common symptoms associated with this parasite are excessive amounts of gas, an enlarged belly, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping and loss of appetite. These symptoms may be mistaken for lactose intolerance.
Telling the Difference
The main way to tell whether your symptoms are from lactose or giardia is by looking into your diet. Eliminate all dairy products form your diet for at least one week. If your symptoms do not subside, they are not from lactose intolerance. Giardia also causes a low-grade fever at times and may cause blood and mucus in your stool. Report these symptoms to your doctor for further evaluation.
Prevention and Treatment
Lactose intolerance is not preventable, but it is manageable. Prevent lactose intolerance symptoms by purchasing lactase enzyme supplements and take one before you ingest dairy products.
Giardia is contagious through exposure to infected stool, but is primarily spread through contaminated water supplies. If you go camping, take your own water with you instead of drinking out of natural water supplies. Rinse fruits and vegetables before you eat them and encourage consistent hand washing in your home.
