Stomach Pain: Is It Lactose Intolerance or Something Else? - Internal Medicine

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Understanding stomach pain can be quite complex, especially when considering conditions like lactose intolerance, gastritis, or even peptic ulcers. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing significant discomfort after consuming milk, which raises the question of whether you might be lactose intolerant or if there is another underlying issue.

Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks sufficient amounts of lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. Symptoms of lactose intolerance typically include bloating, abdominal pain, gas, and diarrhea shortly after consuming dairy products. Since you mentioned that you have been drinking milk regularly and have recently started experiencing these symptoms, it is possible that your body is reacting to the lactose in the milk. This can happen even if you have previously consumed dairy without issues, as the production of lactase can decrease with age or due to changes in gut health.

However, it is also important to consider other gastrointestinal issues that could be causing your symptoms. For instance, gastritis, which is the inflammation of the stomach lining, can lead to similar symptoms, including pain and discomfort after eating. Additionally, peptic ulcers, which are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum), can cause significant pain, especially when the stomach is empty or after consuming certain foods.

Given your symptoms of stomach pain and diarrhea after consuming milk, it would be prudent to first eliminate dairy from your diet for a period of time to see if your symptoms improve. If you notice a significant reduction in discomfort, it may indicate lactose intolerance. You could also try lactose-free dairy products, which are available in many grocery stores, to see if you can tolerate them without experiencing symptoms.

If your symptoms persist even after eliminating dairy, or if you experience severe pain, weight loss, or other concerning symptoms, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend tests such as a lactose tolerance test, hydrogen breath test, or even an endoscopy to rule out other conditions like gastritis or ulcers.

In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and any symptoms that arise. This can help you identify potential triggers and provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

Lastly, while it is understandable to have concerns about undergoing procedures like an endoscopy, it is important to remember that these tests can provide crucial information about your gastrointestinal health. If necessary, discussing your fears with your doctor can help you feel more comfortable and informed about the process.

In summary, your symptoms could be indicative of lactose intolerance, but other gastrointestinal issues should also be considered. Eliminating dairy and monitoring your symptoms is a good first step, and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.