Lactose intolerance is more common than many people think, and its symptoms often go unnoticed or misunderstood. Beyond digestive issues, this condition can cause surprising effects on your body, from skin problems to brittle nails. In this article, we’ll uncover 8 signs your body might be giving you that lactose intolerance could be to blame.
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Skin and nails problems
People with this condition might experience dry, flaky skin, persistent acne, or eczema-like rashes. Brittle nails that break easily or grow unevenly can also be a sign. These symptoms often occur because the body struggles to absorb nutrients like calcium and vitamins when lactose is poorly digested.
Swelling
Dairy allergies can cause reactions not only in your digestive system but also in other parts of your body, including the skin and lungs. Common symptoms include:
- Rash
- Hives
- Swelling, often around the lips and face
- Wheezing
- Tightness in the throat
- Trouble swallowing
In some cases, especially in babies, there may also be blood in the stool.
More severe symptoms, such as throat swelling and difficulty breathing, can indicate anaphylaxis—a serious and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis usually starts within minutes of consuming an allergenic food, though it can sometimes occur hours later. If this happens, immediate treatment is critical. Administer an injection of epinephrine (if available) and seek emergency medical care without delay. If you don’t have epinephrine on hand, go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Bloating
Flatulence
Mouth ulcers
Diarrhea or constipation
Headache and fatigue
Lactose intolerance can sometimes present with symptoms that extend beyond digestive discomfort. These symptoms may include back pain, headaches, fatigue, general tiredness, and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, some individuals report experiencing sleep disturbances, dizziness, and a sense of overall malaise.
These less common symptoms are believed to result from the body’s inability to effectively process lactose, which can trigger inflammatory or metabolic responses in sensitive individuals.
Abdominal pain and cramps
