Lactose intolerance is a common digestive condition where the body is unable to properly digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This is due to a deficiency of lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose in the small intestine.
Symptoms
Symptoms of lactose intolerance typically occur 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming lactose-containing foods or beverages and may include:
- Abdominal Pain: Cramping or discomfort in the abdomen.
- Bloating: A feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
- Gas: Excessive flatulence.
- Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools.
- Nausea: Sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
Causes
Lactose intolerance can be caused by:
- Primary Lactose Intolerance: The most common type, which develops over time as lactase production decreases. It is often inherited and varies by age and ethnic background.
- Secondary Lactose Intolerance: Caused by injury or illness affecting the small intestine, such as gastroenteritis or inflammatory bowel disease, which temporarily reduces lactase production.
- Congenital Lactase Deficiency: A rare, inherited condition where infants are born with very low levels of lactase.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of lactose intolerance typically involves:
- Lactose Tolerance Test: Measures blood sugar levels after consuming a lactose-containing beverage. A rise in blood sugar indicates proper digestion.
- Hydrogen Breath Test: Measures the amount of hydrogen in the breath after consuming lactose. High levels of hydrogen suggest improper digestion of lactose.
- Stool Acidity Test: Often used for infants and young children, this test measures the acidity of stool, which can indicate undigested lactose.
Homoeopathy Treatment
Common Remedies: Some homeopathic remedies that might be suggested based on individual symptoms include:
- Lactose: A remedy made from lactose itself, sometimes used to address symptoms related to lactose intolerance. It is used more as a constitutional remedy and less for acute symptom relief.
- Nux vomica: For digestive disturbances, including abdominal pain and bloating, especially if related to dietary indiscretions or stress.
- Colocynthis: For cramping abdominal pain that may improve with pressure or bending over.
- Carbo vegetabilis: For symptoms of bloating, gas, and a feeling of fullness, often used for digestive issues.
- Bryonia: For dry, painful sensations in the abdomen with a need to be very still.
