Issues of the small intestines can cause both physical
and emotional discomfort as patients deal with its embarrassing symptoms. While
there are many conditions that can cause intestinal issues, bacterial
overgrowth can be a serious condition that requires proper diagnosis to be
treated effectively.
Small intestine
bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a proliferation of bacteria in the small
intestines. It is typically caused by an intestinal obstruction, improper
functioning of intestinal nerves or muscles, or blind loop syndrome (this happens
when digested food slows or stops moving through part of the intestines). When these conditions occur, excess bacterium build up
causes increased discomfort.
Some of the most common symptoms of SIBO include:
- Abdominal distention
- Bloating
- Abdominal tenderness or pain
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Because many of the symptoms of SIBO are comparable to
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) it is important for you to have special
diagnostic testing to rule out excess bacteria overgrowth. One of the most
common tests to diagnose SIBO is called a breath test. It is conducted by
analyzing breath samples for excess hydrogen, methane or both. The test is
simple, pain free and can be performed at a physician’s office.
It includes the
following steps:
1.
24-hours prior to the test – there are specific diet restriction prior to testing.
The first 12 hours include a special diet while the second 12 is a complete
fast. You will be able to brush your
teeth, but you are not to eat any food per the doctor’s orders.
2.
Control sample - Once at the
testing location, the doctor will collect a control breath sample in a small
balloon.
3.
Sugar ingestion- You will be asked
to consume a small packet of test sugar (normally lactulose or glucose).
4.
Breath samples - For the next few
hours, breath samples will be take every 15 to 20 minutes.
5.
Analysis - Breath samples
will be sent to a laboratory to be analyzed for excess amounts of hydrogen and
methane gases.
Once diagnosed, your doctor can determine the best course
of treatment. Normally this includes a combination of antibiotics and
probiotics.
Are you or someone you know suffering from conditions
similar to irritable bowel syndrome? Contact Dr. JustinMcCarthy, MD, for a proper diagnosis and treatment
plan.
