Who Is Affected by Lactose Intolerance

Topic Overview

Symptoms of lactose intolerance (belly pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea) are very common, but not everyone who has symptoms can be diagnosed with the condition. Lactose intolerance is diagnosed by a breath hydrogen test ordered by your doctor.

Lactose intolerance occurs more often in Native Americans and people of Asian, African, and South American descent than among people of European descent. Experts believe that lactose intolerance is directly related to how long ago a person's ancestors were introduced to dairy products.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerRohit K Katial, MD - Allergy and Immunology
Last RevisedJuly 19, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: July 19, 2011
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Rohit K Katial, MD - Allergy and Immunology

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