Chronic Inflammatory Intestinal Symptoms? SIBO Could be the Cause.
It might be surprising to learn that bacteria in our intestines make up many of our body's cells. When gastrointestinal problems become more common, it means it’s time to restore the health of your microbiota.
According to recent studies, more than half of those diagnosed with (irritable bowel syndrome) actually were suffering from SIBO (small intestinal bacterial imbalance). If you are among the many Greater Houston residents who were under the impression that you suffer from IBS, you must pay close attention to the signs and symptoms we will discuss.
Six Indicators of Bacterial Overgrowth in the Small Intestine (SIBO)
The most difficult aspect of diagnosing digestive problems is that there is often a significant bleed-over from one symptom to the next. Many diseases manifest similarly, making it difficult to pinpoint the underlying cause. When it comes to SIBO, pay special attention to the following:
- Gas, bloating, constipation and diarrhea were some symptoms you experienced when administering opiates or other pain relievers.
- Adding more fiber to your diet while you're constipated appears to make the condition worse, not better.
- Getting treatment for unrelated illnesses appears to help your IBS symptoms.
- If you consume probiotics that also contain prebiotics, your bloating will increase.
- You suffer from celiac disease or gluten sensitivity and haven't been able to find a way to manage your symptoms.
- Your blood test results show you have a serious or chronic iron shortage.
If either of these scenarios sounds familiar, you should be concerned that you may have SIBO. You should also be aware of SIBO risk factors, such as a diet high in processed sugars and starches, previous episodes of food poisoning or antibiotic misuse, and insufficient digestive enzyme output.
What are SIBO Symptoms?
Different gut problems can be difficult to diagnose due to the similarity of their symptoms. It is important to remember that each patient is unique, exhibiting different symptoms at different times. The following, however, are among the most common signs of SIBO:
- SIBO Burping or excessive gas
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Indigestion or acid reflux
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis
- Acne
- Rosacea
- Fibromyalgia
- Parkinson's disease
- Alzheimer's disease
- Discomfort or pain in the abdomen
It is also worth noting that IBS is frequently misdiagnosed as another chronic illness. It's known as "leaky gut syndrome," One way to tell the difference is that your illnesses will be more closely related to your immune response than your gastrointestinal tract. However, the fact that many people with SIBO also have leaky guts can complicate matters. In the end, extensive, patient-centered testing is the only way to determine the source of your issues.
SIBO Treatment: It’s Not the Same for Everyone
Although many of us have been conditioned to expect simple, standardized treatment plans from our functional medicine doctors, this is an ineffective approach to health and fitness. SIBO treatment should be tailored to the individual's medical and nutritional history because everyone's body chemistry and microbiota are different.
Dietary modifications, herbal supplements, and, in rare cases, medications are among the most commonly used treatments. For some people, switching to a low FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, which are short-chain carbohydrates that the small intestine absorbs poorly) diet can be quite beneficial. It all depends on the type of fungi and bacteria discovered during the testing process.
Naturally Treating SIBO for Real Results
At Internal Healing and Wellness MD, we help patients from The Woodlands, Conroe, Spring, and the rest of Greater Houston assess, detect, and treat digestive diseases. We can help you build a full treatment plan tailored to you, whether you have SIBO, IBS, or another ailment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Symptoms of SIBO may include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and malabsorption of nutrients.
Treatment options for SIBO may include antibiotics, probiotics, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgery.
SIBO can be treated and managed, but it may recur or persist over time.
The length of SIBO therapy varies depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's response to treatment.
Dietary changes for SIBO may include reducing or eliminating fermentable carbohydrates, such as those found in grains, dairy, and certain fruits and vegetables.
Yes, some SIBO therapies can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and increased risk of infections. It's important to discuss potential side effects with a healthcare provider.
Managing SIBO symptoms at home may involve following a low-FODMAP diet, taking probiotics, and managing stress.
You can find a healthcare provider who specializes in SIBO therapy by asking for referrals from your primary care physician or searching online for specialists in your area. Be sure to check their credentials and ask about it.
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