Irritable Bowel or SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacteria Overgrowth)?

 

Many times individuals will go to their gastroenterologist complaining of digestive problems that are often dismissed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). While that may be the case, there is something else that shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s called SIBO “Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth”.

What is SIBO?

This infection disrupts healthy digestion and absorption. Ideally, bacteria should be at the highest concentration in the colon  rather than the small intestine. When bacteria becomes dominant in the small intestine, a number of digestive issues can occur. SIBO is quite common with individuals suffering with acid reflux, IBS, bloating, or alternating diarrhea and constipation. In fact, studies have shown that SIBO has been found in a very large percentage of those suffering with IBS.

Findings during Medical Visits

SIBO is not something that’s routinely checked for during a medical visit and may be necessary to discuss with your health care practitioner. If you are suffering with unexplainable digestive symptoms and the only conclusion you’ve come to is that you may have IBS- this test may provide some answers. Once diagnosed, people often wonder how they got SIBO in the first place. General aging, immune system disorders, low stomach acid, history of antibiotics, or even former episodes of food poisoning can be responsible for developing this pathogenic bacteria in the small intestine.

Diagnosis

SIBO is not diagnosed through a common blood test; instead the procedure is measured through the breath. When testing, it is required to undergo a 12 hour fasting period followed by a 24 hour preparation diet.  Both hydrogen and methane breath levels are measured over three hours, for a sensitive, specific analysis that allows enhanced detection rates.

Treatment

While natural and herbal approaches to SIBO can be effective – antibiotic treatment may be required to fully eradicate the bad bacterial overgrowth during the initial stages. The primary antibiotics used are Xifaxin and Neomycin over a 14 day period.

Dietary Changes

Once treatment is completed, it is advised to follow a Low FODMAP Diet. FODMAP refers to Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols. This diet created by Sue Shepherd is used to treat patients who suffer from the symptoms of IBS, fructose malabsorption, lactose and gluten intolerances (The same symptoms we often see in people with SIBO). This particular diet is only meant to be followed for a short period of time (3-6 weeks) to help further eliminate symptoms and bring the body back to homeostasis. If symptoms still persist, it’s recommended to go back and have yourself retested as another round of therapeutic antibiotic treatment may be required.