While the disorder is most frequently inherited, it can be caused by other intestinal disorders, including Crohn's disease , tropical sprue , and ulcerative colitis . Symptoms you are likely to notice Abdominal cramps, bloating, flatulence, and diarrhea are the most common symptoms. The severity of the symptoms varies widely, however, depending on how much lactase your body is able to produce and how much milk sugar you have eaten. Symptoms your physician may observe Lactose intolerance produces symptoms similar to those of other intestinal disorders and may be the result of one of them. Your doctor will look for other symptoms, such as weight loss, which could indicate that another disorder is involved.
Some people restrict or avoid eating milk products altogether.
Others use nonprescription lactase replacement caplets, which are taken just before eating milk products. Stages and progress While most babies have high levels of lactase, the ability to produce this enzyme often declines during adolescence and adulthood, especially for people who are not of European ancestry.