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Gut organisms can grow a protective cover, or biofilm, that resists antimicrobials and antibiotics making treatment more difficult. Organic Acids Test (OAT) is recommended for identifying this overgrowth. However, the SIBO test does not identify yeast or fungal overgrowth. Yeast/fungal overgrowth is common and can coexists with SIBO. If hydrogen sulfide SIBO is suspected, assessing sulfur metabolism or using stool tests may be better options. This SIBO test only measures hydrogen and methane gas. Results received quickly (usually within 10 days)Īnother type of SIBO involving hydrogen sulfide is uncommon but can be present. Non-invasive test Breath samples taken in the comfort of your home Objective measure of the severity of the overgrowth Retesting can be used to monitor progress with treatment Objective data to inform antimicrobial treatments History of “food poisoning” or “travellers diarrhea”Ĭonfirm bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine Gas, bloating, abdominal pain after eating mealsĬhronic loose stools, diarrhea or constipation (or alternating) The following are other symptoms and issues that may be related to SIBO: So SIBO testing may be helpful for directing treatment in those who have or suspect they have IBS. In one study using this same breath test, 84% of people diagnosed with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) tested positive for SIBO (compared to only 20% of controls). In addition, testing found both groups of SIBO organisms (producing methane and hydrogen) are present about half of the time. Our small study revealed that SIBO is common for those with digestive symptoms. 3 had low but significant methane levels this is important for treatment of constipation. 6 out of 9 had confirmed SIBO: 6 had high methane levels 4 also had high hydrogen levels. Other relevant symptoms our participants reported include: joint pain, fatigue and rosacea. Along with observing symptoms, retesting can also be helpful for monitoring treatment.Īll 9 participants reported digestive symptoms or history of chronic digestive issues. Once we identify excess hydrogen or methane (or both), we can better choose the antimicrobials for eradicating the overgrowth. This Lactulose breath test is considered the gold standard for non-invasive SIBO testing. The high or increasing level of these gases during the first 120 minutes indicate bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. The lab measures the levels of hydrogen and methane gas in the tubes and graphs these levels over a period of 3 hours. Intestinal organisms produce hydrogen and/or methane gas through the fermentation of carbohydrates like lactulose.Īfter drinking the lactulose solution, patients exhale into a test tube every 20 minutes. After a simple 24 hour prep diet (designed to “starve” potential SIBO organisms) patients take a baseline breath sample, then drink a lactulose solution. The SIBO test, or Lactulose test, is a breath test performed at home. Abdominal scar tissue, diabetes and a history of concussions may also affect gut movement. For example, long term use of reflux medications or frequent use of antibiotics may contribute. Conditions, medications or injuries that change the automatic and coordinated movement of the intestinal tract, can contribute to the development of SIBO. Most often, SIBO is caused by a dysfunction in the movement of the intestinal tract. For this reason, SIBO may be one of the reasons why a person may react poorly to taking a probiotic. In excess, even “good” strains of bacteria in the small intestine can contribute to digestive issues. But have you thought about where in the gut they should be? In Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), there is an excess of microbes in the small intestine. You’ve probably heard about “good” and “bad” gut bacteria. Today, we would like to share the insights we gained: What is SIBO? Who should be tested? How do you do the test? What are the benefits and limitations? What is SIBO? At Brio, we’re always looking for tools for more precise diagnosis, more personalized treatments and better monitoring of progress.Įarlier this year, we asked the Brio community to help us gain insight into SIBO testing – what an enthusiastic response! Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped us learn more about this valuable tool for treating a growing digestive issue. And digestive distress is one of the most common concerns our patients come in with. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, or SIBO, is becoming an increasingly common diagnosis of the digestive system linked to IBS, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, fatigue and more.
