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ABSTRACT –

Lactose Intolerance is also known as Lactose Malabsorption, in which the body is unable to digest lactose from milk. It leads to some digestive problems like diarrhea, gas and bloating after eating or drinking dairy products. Deficiency of lactase enzyme produced in small intestine results in lactose intolerance. However, it is also possible that person can digest lactose with low level of lactase as well without any trouble.

CAUSES –

• Deficiency of lactase enzyme

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Flatulence and gas build up
• Bloating

DIAGNOSIS –

• Physical examination
• Hydrogen breath test
• Lactose tolerance test
• Stool sample testing

TREATMENT –

• Avoid consumption of dairy products in large quantity
• Eating or drinking lactose-reduced ice cream and milk
• Use of certain powder in milk to break down lactose
• Lactose free diet

RISK FACTORS –

• Age: Risk of lactose intolerance increases with increasing age
• Premature birth
• Other diseases which affects small intestine
• Certain cancer treatments

EPIDEMIOLOGY –

• Around 70% population is suffering from this condition worldwide with most common in African, Asian, Hispanic and American Indian people.