Category FAQs Search : Lactose Intolerance
Question: Is lactose intolerance an allergy?
Answer: No. A food allergy is a reaction from your immune system, usually to a protein in your food. Your immune system registers the protein as a threat and reacts to remove it. Even a small amount of the protein can cause a big reaction if you’re allergic, and it usually occurs very soon after ingesting it.
An allergic reaction can cause symptoms throughout your body, not just in your digestive system. It may include swelling, hives and shortness of breath. You may also have stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, but this would usually occur early in the digestive process when the protein is still in your stomach.
(Source: Cleveland Clinic, 31 Jan 2026)
Source Link: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/7317-lactose-intolerance