Lactose intolerance is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the body is unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. In this article, we will discuss lactose intolerance ICD 10, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is a digestive disorder that occurs when the body is unable to produce enough lactase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose. This results in the incomplete digestion of lactose, leading to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, gas, and diarrhea.
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance
The symptoms of lactose intolerance vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Some common symptoms include:
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
Diagnosing Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance can be diagnosed through various tests such as a lactose tolerance test, hydrogen breath test, or stool acidity test. These tests measure how the body reacts to lactose and can help determine whether or not a person is lactose intolerant.
Treatment of Lactose Intolerance
The treatment of lactose intolerance involves avoiding or limiting the consumption of lactose-containing foods and beverages. This includes milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and other dairy products. Lactase supplements can also be taken before consuming lactose-containing foods to help break down the lactose.
Lactose Intolerance ICD 10 Code
The ICD 10 code for lactose intolerance is E73.1. This code is used by healthcare professionals to document the diagnosis of lactose intolerance in medical records.
Preventing Lactose Intolerance
Although lactose intolerance cannot be prevented, there are ways to manage the condition. This includes consuming lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products, taking lactase supplements, and avoiding foods and beverages that contain high amounts of lactose.
Complications of Lactose Intolerance
If left untreated, lactose intolerance can lead to various complications such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, and anemia. This is because the body may not be able to absorb enough calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients from the diet.
Conclusion
Lactose intolerance is a common condition that affects many people around the world. It can cause various digestive symptoms and can be diagnosed through various tests. Treatment involves avoiding lactose-containing foods and beverages or taking lactase supplements. If you suspect that you may have lactose intolerance, consult with your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.