DR LAURA RYAN: Ask the doc – What is lactose intolerance?

Q. I have family coming to dinner and my sister-in-law is lactose intolerant – what does that mean?

A. Lactose intolerance is a common digestive problem where the body is unable to digest lactose, a type of sugar mainly found in milk and dairy products.

People with lactose intolerance don’t produce enough lactase, a substance your body uses to break down lactose, so the lactose stays in the digestive system where it is fermented by bacteria.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance usually develop within a few hours of consuming food or drink that contains lactose.

They may include:

• flatulence (wind)

• diarrhoea

• bloated stomach

• stomach cramps and pains

• stomach rumbling

• feeling sick

To help your planning and reduce any concerns you could consider speaking to your sister-in-law.

People who know they have lactose intolerance will tell you what they can and can’t eat if you speak to them in advance.

Visit www.nhsinform.scot and search for “lactose intolerance” for more advice.

Q. Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking painkillers?

A. Do not drink alcohol if you are taking strong painkillers or prescription only painkillers, including codeine and tramadol.

These can cause drowsiness and low blood pressure, both of which can be increased when drinking alcohol.

It’s normally safe to drink a small amount of alcohol while taking ibuprofen or aspirin as long as you check the information leaflet, take the correct dose and stick with the daily limit.

If you have kidney or liver issues, don’t take aspirin or ibuprofen before speaking to your GP.

Children who are under the age of 16 should not take aspirin.

• Dr Laura Ryan, who is NHS 24’s medical director and has 20 years experience as a doctor, answers readers’ questions in our column.

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