Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose which is a sugar found in milk and dairy products.

Causes

• Lack of enzyme called lactase
• Injury to small intestine
• Certain medical conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, etc.
• Certain medications
• Old age
• Heredity

Symptoms
Symptoms may begin after 30 minutes to 2 hours of consuming anything containing lactose and include:

• Nausea
• Cramps
• Bloating
• Gas
• Diarrhea

Treatment
There is no cure for the condition but symptoms can be managed by:

• Avoiding lactose consumption in case of high intolerance
• Consuming limited and tolerable amount of lactose through controlled diet
• Taking lactase enzyme in the form of tablets or liquids
• Consuming lactose reduced milk and dairy products

Prevention