Symptoms of this lesser-known gastrointestinal issue often overlap with those of irritable bowel syndrome making differential diagnosis challenging

Its underlying causes often relate to issues that disrupt the normal motility of the small intestine, he says, allowing bacteria to overgrow, such as previous abdominal surgeries, diseases affecting intestinal muscles, or conditions like diabetes that can slow digestion.

Common signs and symptoms of SIBO

Some common symptoms of SIBO, Dr Srinivasan explains, include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation, often similar to those observed in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This overlap can make differential diagnosis challenging. 

Unlike IBS, which is a functional gastrointestinal disorder without a clear physical cause, SIBO’s symptoms are directly related to bacterial overgrowth which can be addressed and potentially resolved with treatment, confirms Dr Srinivasan.

Complications and associations between SIBO and IBS

Citing research published on the subject, Dr Srinivasan suggests that a significant subset of IBS patients may actually have SIBO. “Addressing SIBO in these patients can lead to an improvement or resolution of IBS symptoms, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis,” he says. 

Potential complications of untreated SIBO include vitamin deficiencies, weight loss, and malnutrition, due to the malabsorption of nutrients.

Some common symptoms of SIBO, Dr Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan explains, include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation (Source: Freepik)

Diagnostic methods and treatment Options:

In managing SIBO, Dr Srinivasan suggests a multifaceted approach that addresses the root cause of bacterial overgrowth, supports overall digestive health, and manages symptoms is most effective. 

“Given the complexity of gastrointestinal disorders like SIBO and IBS, and the significant overlap in their symptoms, individuals experiencing these symptoms should consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment planning,” he says.

For those concerned about this disorder, he elaborates on the diagnosis and treatment methods one can undertake:

• Diagnosis: The diagnosis of SIBO typically involves breath testing, which measures the levels of hydrogen or methane gas produced by bacteria in the small intestine. Other methods can include jejunal aspiration and culture, though these are less commonly used due to their invasiveness.
• Treatment: Management strategies for SIBO include antibiotics to reduce bacterial overgrowth, prokinetics to improve gut motility, and dietary changes to limit the bacteria’s fuel sources. Dietary modifications often involve reducing intake of certain carbohydrates that bacteria readily ferment.
• Lifestyle changes: Patients are also advised to adopt lifestyle changes that support gut health, such as regular eating patterns, moderate exercise, and stress management techniques.