Can infant lactose intolerance be self-healing?

Written by Tong Peng
Pediatrics
Updated on September 16, 2024
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Whether infant lactose intolerance can self-heal needs to be identified as either congenital or secondary. If it is congenital lactose intolerance, it means that the baby's own intestines cannot produce lactase, and thus the symptoms of lactose intolerance cannot be alleviated.

However, secondary lactose intolerance, such as that caused by chronic diarrhea or infection which leads to a reduction in lactase, can be recoverable. The reduction in lactase production caused by chronic diarrhea does not mean that the intestines have lost their normal function to secrete lactase. Therefore, by using lactose-free formula or avoiding foods containing lactose, the normal intestinal flora can be repaired, achieving relief from the symptoms of lactose intolerance.

Additionally, if there is a viral infection, particularly rotavirus infection-induced lactose intolerance, it can also be alleviated through dietary adjustments to promote the repair of the intestinal flora. Therefore, the treatment of lactose intolerance should vary from person to person, and it is important to identify early whether it is primary or secondary.

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Written by Quan Xiang Mei
Pediatrics
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Can infant lactose intolerance cause bloody stools?

When infants experience lactose intolerance, there is a possibility of bloody stools. With lactose intolerance, infants will exhibit symptoms such as an increased frequency of bowel movements, diarrhea, and bloating. If the frequency of bowel movements is particularly high, for instance more than ten times, or even more, especially over a prolonged period, the gastrointestinal function of the infant is not very perfect. An increase in bowel movements can exacerbate damage to the gastrointestinal mucosa, potentially leading to bloody stools. Additionally, when the frequency of bowel movements is very high, it could lead to damage to the perianal skin, which might also result in bloody stools. Or, when an infant has lactose intolerance, if they are also suffering from other viral or bacterial infections in the gastrointestinal tract, the likelihood of bloody stools may increase. Therefore, if we consider that an infant has lactose intolerance, it is crucial to promptly add lactase for treatment and to switch to a different formula for oral administration.

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Written by Tong Peng
Pediatrics
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How to regulate diarrhea caused by infant lactose intolerance

Children with lactose intolerance exhibit symptoms of diarrhea and must be treated through diet and medication. Lactose intolerance indicates an insufficient secretion of lactase by the child's digestive system. Therefore, the diet should consist of light, liquid, and easily digestible foods, avoiding hard-to-digest and lactose-containing foods. Additionally, dietary adjustments are necessary. If the child is breastfed or formula-fed, it is advisable to temporarily switch to lactose-free formula until symptoms subside and then gradually return to a normal diet. It is also important to use probiotics and related supportive medications. Attention should be paid to the child's stool, skin turgor, and urine output, as prolonged diarrhea can lead to malnutrition and electrolyte imbalances, with severe cases possibly resulting in dehydration. Hence, ongoing monitoring is essential.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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What should I do if lactose intolerance makes me feel like vomiting?

People with lactose intolerance often feel nauseous and should avoid drinking milk. If they must drink milk, it needs to undergo special treatment first. Consuming untreated milk can lead to diarrhea in lactose-intolerant individuals, and severe cases may result in dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Additionally, those with lactose intolerance should also check for any milk allergies or diarrhea caused by indigestion. It is essential to conduct allergen tests and, if necessary, take oral medication to regulate the digestive system.

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Written by Wu Ben Rong
Pediatrics
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What kind of formula should a baby with lactose intolerance drink?

If a child is lactose intolerant, parents can go to a maternity and baby store to pick a lactose-free infant formula. Lactose intolerance is due to a deficiency or insufficient activity of lactase in the small intestinal mucosa, which results in the inability to completely digest and break down the lactose in breast milk or cow's milk. Common symptoms may include weeks of diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain. Primary lactose intolerance is usually caused by genetic factors, while secondary lactose intolerance is generally caused by gastroenteritis. When a child exhibits the aforementioned symptoms, parents need to improve the child's diet and switch to a lactose-free infant formula, which not only ensures the child's nutritional intake but also alleviates the condition of lactose intolerance. If necessary, they should visit a formal hospital for relevant examinations and treatment.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Symptoms of baby lactose intolerance

If a child has lactose intolerance, the main symptoms are related to the digestive system, such as frequent bloating. Children may experience bloating and restlessness at night, and even signs of intestinal colic. There are abnormal bowel movement frequencies, such as constipation for several days, as well as diarrhea with a noticeable increase in stool frequency and a looser stool consistency. Sometimes, there may be symptoms of bloody stools, which should alert caregivers to the possibility of lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance is divided into primary and secondary forms. Primary lactose intolerance is more common in Chinese due to genetic factors. Secondary lactose intolerance is mainly due to other reasons that lead to a deficiency of intestinal lactase, with infections and acute gastroenteritis being common causes. For children with lactose intolerance, lactase can be added to breast milk or lactose-free formula can be used. It is also advised to regularly recheck urinary lactose levels. If levels return to normal, breastfeeding can continue. If abnormalities persist, gradually introduce solid foods, as a normal diet usually does not significantly affect the child.