What is SIBO?
SIBO stands for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. When you’re diagnosed with SIBO, you’re experiencing an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. There is a certain amount of bacteria that should be present, however, when too much bacteria can cause digestion issues.
Causes of SIBO
Your gut is complex. There are mechanical and chemical functions that must work together to maintain flora balance. Flora balance keeps your GI system functioning properly. When any part of the mechanical or chemical functions starts to function improperly, it causes flora imbalances resulting in SIBO.
Symptoms of SIBO
Like many other conditions, SIBO symptoms will vary between all patients. Symptoms could include but are not limited to:
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Bloating or indigestion
- Abdominal discomfort
- Loss of appetite
Diagnosing SIBO
When diagnosing SIBO, a SIBO breath test may be necessary. The test will check for any bacterial overgrowth. This test can help find the underlying problem of the uncomfortable symptoms you’re experiencing to help provide a treatment plan and get you feeling back to normal.
The SIBO breath test is noninvasive. You will drink a sugary solution and breathe into a breathalyzer. As you’re breathing out, amounts of methane and hydrogen are being measured. Any intestinal bacteria will ferment and will come out in your breath. If there are spikes in either your methane or hydrogen levels, this typically means there is excess bacteria in your small intestine.
If the SIBO breath test doesn’t provide clear enough information for your doctor to diagnose the underlying problem, additional tests may be requested. One or more of the following may be necessary:
• X-rays
• MRI
• Stool evaluation
• Blood test
Treatment for SIBO
Treatment plans vary between patients based on the diagnosis. The most common treatment is antibiotics. Depending on your medical history and the underlying cause of your SIBO, antibiotics could be a short term or long-term solution.
Your provider may also recommend dietary changes such as adding supplements for nutritional aspects you may be falling short on. Additionally, it may be recommended to limit all dairy consumption.