What is SIBO?

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.