Lactose Intolerance and Heart Palpitations

Lactose intolerance does not affect the cardiovascular system and does not cause heart palpitations. A milk allergy, which can cause heart palpitations, is commonly confused with lactose intolerance.

If you develop heart palpitations after eating dairy products, it may be a sign of anaphylaxis — a severe (and potentially fatal) allergic reaction. Read on to learn more.

Lactose Intolerance vs. Milk Allergy

Lactose intolerance and a milk allergy are easily confused because the conditions cause similar digestive symptoms after ingesting dairy products.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) defines lactose intolerance as a digestive complication caused by the inability to digest the sugar found in milk. Lactose intolerance will only cause digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, cramping, bloating and gas.

Allergies to food and beverages like milk are very different. According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), allergic reactions to food can include anything from mild symptoms like hives or lip swelling to anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening and includes symptoms such a heart palpitations.

The FDA also identifies milk as one of nine major food allergens.

Heart Palpitations After Eating Dairy

Heart palpitations that develop shortly after consuming dairy products are the result of a severe allergic reaction. Your immune system mistakes proteins found in milk for a dangerous substance, causing your body to attack them with different chemicals.

If you develop anaphylaxis, the excessive amount of these chemicals causes shortness of breath, facial swelling, a lump to form in your throat, lightheadedness and an increased heart rate. If you experience any of these symptoms, an epinephrine pen needs to be administered. If one is not available, call 911.

Treatment for Anaphylaxis

The most effective treatment for anaphylaxis is an injection of epinephrine. If you have been diagnosed with a severe milk allergy, ask your doctor about carrying an epinephrine pen in case of an emergency.

Epinephrine is synthetic adrenaline that restores the body to its normal functionality. Without this medication, fatal complications can develop.

Preventing Allergic Reactions

If you're diagnosed with a milk allergy, you will need to avoid all products that contain milk. This includes yogurt, cheese, whipped cream, ice cream, milk, whey protein powder, non-dairy creamers, deli meats, and salad dressings.

If you eliminate milk from your diet, your doctor may recommend that you increase your daily calcium intake by either taking a supplement or eating more spinach, broccoli, or canned fish.