Which specialist treats lactose intolerance?

Lactose intolerance occurs when the body has difficulty digesting lactose, the sugar in milk. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhoea after dairy foods or drinks. A GP can review the timing, amount of dairy, bowel pattern, medicines, and other possible causes.

A gastroenterologist focuses on digestive conditions and may be helpful when symptoms persist, the diagnosis is unclear, or another bowel problem needs consideration. Food intolerance testing is only one possible part of assessment; your clinician may recommend a supervised dietary trial or another approach.

Keep a food and symptom diary, including the type and amount of dairy, when symptoms started, and how long they lasted. Do not remove all dairy for a prolonged period without advice, because this can make it harder to maintain adequate nutrition. Nutrition counselling can help you choose suitable alternatives and preserve a balanced diet.

A GP can explain whether testing is useful and whether symptoms could instead reflect another intolerance, infection, or bowel condition. Bring a list of medicines and any history of weight change or restricted eating.

Arrange prompt assessment for blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, fever, dehydration, or symptoms that repeatedly wake you. Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips or throat, breathing difficulty, or collapse after food, because these can indicate an allergic reaction rather than lactose intolerance.

Ask whether your symptoms fit lactose intolerance, whether food intolerance testing is appropriate, and how to test a dietary change safely. Ask how to meet calcium and other nutritional needs, when to involve a gastroenterologist or dietitian, and which symptoms require reassessment.