Chronic digestive distress can be complex and frustrating, with symptoms that often overlap with other conditions. For many, the underlying cause may be Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, or SIBO. Recognizing the hallmark SIBO symptoms, such as severe bloating and gas, is the first step toward getting an accurate diagnosis. A specialized SIBO breath test is the key diagnostic tool used to confirm the condition. From there, a targeted SIBO treatment plan can be developed to reduce the bacterial overgrowth, alleviate symptoms, and restore gut health. Understanding this condition is crucial for finding a clear path to relief.
The medical team at Doral Health & Wellness provides comprehensive, expert guidance on all aspects of digestive health. We are committed to offering clear information and a supportive environment, ensuring you have the resources to manage your health with confidence and peace of mind.
What is SIBO and Who is at Risk?
The small intestine is supposed to have a relatively low number of bacteria compared to the large intestine (colon). SIBO occurs when there is an abnormal increase in the number of bacteria in the small intestine, or when types of bacteria not commonly found there are present. These excess bacteria can ferment carbohydrates from your food, producing gas and leading to a host of uncomfortable symptoms.
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing SIBO:
- Motility Disorders – Conditions that slow the movement of food and waste through the small intestine, such as gastroparesis or IBS.
- Previous Surgeries – Abdominal surgeries can create scar tissue (adhesions) that may affect gut motility.
- Structural Issues – Problems like diverticulosis in the small intestine can allow bacteria to accumulate.
- Overlap with IBS – A significant number of people diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), particularly the diarrhea-predominant type, may have underlying SIBO.
Recognizing Common SIBO Symptoms
The signs of SIBO can mimic many other digestive disorders, making a professional diagnosis essential. The symptoms are primarily caused by bacterial fermentation and malabsorption of nutrients.
Hallmark SIBO symptoms include:
- Bloating and Distension – A feeling of excessive fullness and visible swelling of the abdomen, often worsening throughout the day.
- Excessive Gas and Belching – A direct result of the gases (hydrogen, methane) produced by the bacteria.
- Abdominal Pain or Cramping – Discomfort caused by the buildup of gas and pressure in the small intestine.
- Changes in Bowel Habits – This can include chronic diarrhea, constipation, or a mix of both. Methane-dominant SIBO is often associated with constipation.
- Malabsorption – In more severe cases, SIBO can interfere with the absorption of fats and nutrients, leading to symptoms like fatty stools, unintentional weight loss, and nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12, iron).
The SIBO Breath Test: A Key Diagnostic Tool
The most common and non-invasive method for diagnosing SIBO is a breath test. This test measures the concentration of hydrogen and methane gases in your breath after you drink a sugar solution (usually lactulose or glucose).
How It Works
- Test Preparation – You will need to follow a specific diet for 1-2 days before the test and fast overnight.
- The Procedure – You provide a baseline breath sample, then drink the sugar solution. You will then provide additional breath samples at set intervals (e.g., every 20 minutes) for about three hours.
- Interpreting Results – An early and significant rise in hydrogen or methane gas suggests that bacteria in your small intestine are fermenting the sugar, confirming a diagnosis of SIBO.
A gut doctor is best qualified to order and interpret a SIBO breath test.
Evidence-Based SIBO Treatment Strategies
Treatment for SIBO focuses on reducing the bacterial overgrowth, relieving symptoms, and addressing the underlying cause to prevent recurrence.
- Antibiotics – This is the primary SIBO treatment. A specific, non-absorbable antibiotic called rifaximin is often used because it targets the gut directly with minimal systemic side effects. For methane-dominant SIBO, rifaximin is often combined with another antibiotic, such as neomycin.
- Dietary Strategies – A diet low in fermentable carbohydrates, such as the low-FODMAP diet, may be recommended as a short-term strategy to help manage symptoms while the antibiotics work. It is not a long-term cure.
- Prokinetics – After antibiotic treatment, your doctor may prescribe a prokinetic agent. This medication helps stimulate gut motility, improving the cleansing waves that sweep bacteria down into the colon and helping to prevent a relapse.
Finding the best gastroenterologist near me ensures you receive a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific type of SIBO.
When to See a Specialist
If you are experiencing persistent digestive symptoms like severe bloating, gas, and abdominal pain that do not resolve, it is time to consult a specialist. A gastroenterologist can properly evaluate your symptoms and determine if a SIBO breath test is necessary. An expert gut doctor in NY can differentiate SIBO from other conditions and provide effective, evidence-based care.
Your Partner in Digestive Health
Living with chronic digestive issues can be challenging, but a proper diagnosis is the key to effective management. Understanding the common SIBO symptoms, the role of the SIBO breath test, and the available SIBO treatment options can empower you to seek the care you need. A partnership with a skilled and supportive gut doctor is your most valuable asset on the journey back to digestive wellness.
The expert gastroenterology team at Doral Health & Wellness is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to the Brooklyn community. We utilize advanced diagnostics to offer clarity and develop personalized health strategies tailored to your specific needs. To schedule a consultation, contact Doral Health & Wellness today at 1-718-365-2555 or visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212. For general information about Doral Health & Wellness services, you can contactor email info@doralhw.org.
