How to manage lactose intolerance in babies?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a concerned parent seeking advice regarding my baby’s digestive health. My baby has been diagnosed with lactose intolerance, and despite switching to lactose-free milk, there has been no improvement in symptoms. The stool test report is as follows:

pH: 7.0
Reducing substance: Positive

Given these results, I would like to understand what this indicates and what further steps should be taken to manage my baby's condition effectively. Should I consider additional dietary changes or further medical evaluation?

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to iCliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Based on the limited information provided, I recommend repeating the stool test, as lactose intolerance typically results in a stool pH of 5.5 or lower. Additionally, since your baby is 2.5 years old and has been experiencing lactose intolerance symptoms for only a month, this could be secondary lactose intolerance caused by disturbances in gut flora. This often occurs after an episode of diarrhea, a prolonged course of antibiotics, or other gastrointestinal issues. To confirm the diagnosis and better understand the condition, I suggest repeating the following tests:

Stool analysis (routine), including pH, ova, and cysts.
Stool-reducing substances.
Stool test for rotavirus.
Stool test for H. pylori.

In the meantime, I recommend giving a Sporilac sachet mix one sachet with a cup of water and administer twice daily for three days. Please share additional details, such as when the symptoms started, whether there was an episode of diarrhea or other illnesses, any history of antibiotic use, how your baby’s health has been since birth, and whether growth has been normal. Once I have all the necessary information and test reports, I will provide further guidance.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Take care.