Lactose is a sugar found in milk and its derivatives. Lactase is the name of the enzyme in our bodies that digests lactose. Lack of this enzyme causes a group of symptoms known as lactose intolerance.
Lactase deficiency can be congenital or acquired (gastroenteritis, bowel disease, etc.).
The most common manifestation is stomach discomfort, which occurs shortly after consuming milk or one of its derivatives. The discomfort is sometimes more severe and is described as colic pain. It may be accompanied by bloating, flatulence and diarrhoea.
The diagnosis is made by a clinical history and physical examination. It is confirmed by a blood, breath or stool test.
It is treated by eliminating the consumption of lactose and treating the cause. For people for whom it is not possible to remove lactose completely, industrially produced lactase (a breakdown enzyme) supplements can be given. It may be necessary to supplement the diet with calcium, as much of the calcium in the body comes from milk and its derivatives.
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