Lactose intolerance or milk allergy? A safety distinction

Lactose intolerance can cause pain, bloating and bowel changes after dairy products. It differs from food allergy, which NHS guidance warns may involve swelling or breathing difficulty and can be dangerous.

Do not remove an entire food group, especially from a child's diet, without advice. Some people tolerate smaller amounts; assessment may also identify another condition affecting lactose digestion.

Sudden tongue or throat swelling or breathing difficulty after food requires emergency help. Do not manage these signs as a home experiment in avoiding lactose.