Lactose intolerance can cause a variety of mild to severe symptoms that are usually relieved by reducing or eliminating consumption of certain foods and beverages. However, if you have swollen ankles it is best to consult your physician because this can be a warning sign of a serious underlying medical condition. If your doctor determines that your diet is the problem, she can make suggestions on any dietary changes necessary.
Lactose Intolerance
Normally cells within your small intestine produce an enzyme called lactase that breaks down the sugar lactose into glucose and galactose so it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. If you are lactose intolerant it means that your body does not make enough of this enzyme and therefore has trouble digesting products that contain lactose. You can be born with lactose intolerance due to a genetic defect, it can be the result of an illness or injury to the intestines or you can develop it later in life when your body naturally produces less lactase, says the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Lactose Intolerance Symptoms
Symptoms of lactose intolerance usually occur within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingesting milk, cheese or other dairy products. Common symptoms include rumbling tummy sounds, gas, stomach cramps, stomach bloating and diarrhea, notes the American Academy of Family Physicians. Lactose intolerance effects everyone differently as some can consume small amounts of dairy, while others can not tolerate any at all. You may find relief through taking over-the-counter or prescription medications that mimic the actions of lactose or by consuming dairy products such as yogurt that contain live active cultures.
Allergy to Dairy Foods
If you develop swollen ankles after consuming a product such as milk you may not be lactose intolerant, but rather you may have an allergy to certain foods. A food allergy is an immune system reaction that occurs within minutes to 2 hours after eating a certain food. If you have an allergy to milk, soon after drinking it your immune system triggers a response that releases antibodies to attack it. Food allergy symptoms can be mild or severe and include tingling or itching in the mouth, hives, trouble breathing, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fainting or swelling of the lips, face, tongue, throat or other parts of the body, reports MayoClinic.com. For some food allergies can cause a severe reaction called anaphylaxis which is life threatening if not treated properly.
Swollen Ankle Causes
A food allergy is just one of many situations that can cause swollen ankles. Your ankles can swell due to a sprain, strain or other injury, after standing or sitting for too long, in response to a high salt diet or swollen ankles can be a warning sign of a serious heart condition, according to Cleveland Clinic. If your swollen ankles are accompanied by chest pain or tightness, trouble breathing, fatigue, loss of sensation in the ankles, changes in skin color or elasticity or pain it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.
