Notice whether you get symptoms after eating or drinking dairy
Common symptoms include bloating
Common symptoms include gas
Common symptoms include stomach cramps
Common symptoms include diarrhea
Common symptoms include nausea
Symptoms usually start within a few minutes to a few hours after dairy
Check whether symptoms happen more after milk, ice cream, or soft cheeses
See whether small amounts of dairy cause fewer or no symptoms
Try lactose-free milk and see if symptoms improve
Compare reactions to yogurt or hard cheeses, which may be easier to digest
Keep a food and symptom diary
Avoid self-diagnosing if symptoms are severe or frequent
Ask a doctor about a lactose intolerance test
Ask a doctor about a hydrogen breath test
Ask a doctor about a lactose tolerance test
Ask a doctor about ruling out other causes like milk allergy or IBS