Lactose Intolerance vs. Dairy Allergy
Two very different problems. One is uncomfortable; the other can be dangerous.
The Reality / Science
Lactose intolerance is a digestive issue. Your small intestine doesn't produce enough lactase enzyme to break down lactose (milk sugar). When undigested lactose reaches your colon, it ferments, causing bloating, gas, cramps, and diarrhea. It's uncomfortable but not dangerous.
Dairy allergy is an immune response. Your body treats milk proteins (casein or whey) as threats and releases histamine and other chemicals. Symptoms range from hives and swelling to anaphylaxis. It can be life-threatening.
"Lactose intolerance is a digestive problem, while milk allergy is an immune problem." — Mayo Clinic
Why the Myth Persists
Both involve dairy. Both can cause stomach upset. Both require label-reading. But the stakes are completely different. Parents hear "dairy problem" and assume all dairy problems are equal — which fuels unnecessary anxiety and, paradoxically, can make people dismiss real allergies as "just intolerance."
Parental Perspective
If your child has lactose intolerance, you're managing comfort and digestion. If they have a dairy allergy, you're managing safety. It's okay to feel confused at first — the terminology is genuinely misleading. But once you know which one you're dealing with, the path becomes much clearer.
Takeaway / Action Tip
- Lactose intolerance: Symptoms appear 30 min–2 hours after eating dairy. Usually digestive (bloating, gas, cramps). No rash, swelling, or breathing issues.
- Dairy allergy: Symptoms can appear within minutes. May include hives, swelling (lips, throat), vomiting, or difficulty breathing. Always consult a pediatrician.
Next step: If unsure, ask your pediatrician for testing. Don't guess.