Lactose is a natural sugar that is common in dairy products. Lactose intolerance is the inability to breakdown lactose. The condition is due to the body’s inability to create a sufficient amount of lactase, an enzyme that is supplied by the small intestine. Lactase’ job is to break down lactose.
When the small intestine doesn’t make enough lactase, lactose goes undigested as it moves into the large intestine. Interaction between undigested lactose and bacteria in the large intestine cause uncomfortable symptoms related to lactose intolerance or lactase deficiency.
Symptoms related to lactose intolerance are primarily uncomfortable but do not point to a serious digestive condition. The symptoms generally subside within a few hours. If you are lactose intolerant, you will likely feel the following symptoms:
- Excessive gas – When the lactose gets fermented in the colon, it can produce hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide. This can lead to increase flatulence. The extent of gas will vary from person to person, with some people feeling no gas and others having a lot of painful flatulence.
- Constipation – When lactose is fermented, it can produce methane gas. Methane gas slows down the time it takes food to travel through the gut. This can cause constipation.
- Diarrhea – Lactose intolerance can cause the volume of water in the colon to increase, which causes the volume of stool and liquid to increase. Combined with the fermentation process that happens, this can lead to diarrhea.
- Stomach pain – The combination of gas and water in the colon can lead to stomach cramps. This pain is typically in the lower abdomen.
- Bloating – The feeling of bloating is the result of increased water and gas in the colon.
Malabsorption
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney, 68 percent of the world’s population is plagued by malabsorption. However, malabsorption doesn’t necessarily trigger digestive symptoms. In other words, it is possible to have insufficient absorption of lactose and not be lactose intolerant.
The degree of symptoms a person experiences can vary. Some people who are lactose intolerant may be able to consume a small amount of dairy foods and not have symptoms, while others can experience a lot of painful symptoms with even the smallest amount of lactose intake. People tolerate lactose differently.
Vitamin Deficiency
Calcium and vitamin D deficiencies are more serious symptoms of lactose intolerance. The main sources for vitamin D and calcium are dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. Avoiding these foods will allow you to avoid the symptoms of lactose intolerance but could also place you at risk for conditions related to vitamin deficiency. If your intolerance of lactose is so severe that you’re unable to receive the required daily amount of calcium and vitamin D, your health might be compromised. A doctor can help you get the right amount of vitamin intake through supplements and dietary guidance.
Lactose Intolerance Treatment in Austin, Texas
If you’re experiencing symptoms related to lactose intolerance but haven’t been diagnosed, visit one of Austin Gastroenterology’s convenient locations in the Austin area. Our physicians will diagnose your condition and help you to move forward with a plan to address symptoms.
For more information or to make an appointment in our North Offices, call (512) 244-2273. Call our Central Offices at (512) 454-4588 and the South Offices at (512) 448-4588. You can also request an appointment online.
