Teen's Tummy Torment

Apr 13 2008 Dr Gareth Smith

Q I AM15 and suffer from a dodgy tummy. I feel sick a lot then have to run to the loo. It is really embarrassing. What is wrong with me?

A ONE of the most common causes of stomach upset in young people is an intolerance to lactose.

This is a protein found in dairy products and if you lack the enzyme to digest it, it causes the milk to ferment in your guts leading to wind, nausea and diarrhoea.

Try cutting out dairy products such as milk, butter and ice cream and see if that helps.

If there is no improvement, visit your GP who can perform some tests.