MMC

The second part of the article focuses on the diagnosis of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), continuing the discussion of essential topics not covered in Part One. In that part, we reviewed the core symptoms and causes of SIBO. Now we focus on diagnostic tools that help identify this condition and guide optimal therapy. Distinguishing between the different types of SIBO — hydrogen, methane, and hydrogen sulfide — requires accurate diagnostic methods to select the correct treatment. Importantly, diagnosing SIBO not only confirms the condition but helps rule out other diseases with similar symptoms.

SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) is a condition where bacteria that are normally present in small amounts in the small intestine—or that typically reside in the large intestine—begin to proliferate in the small intestine. SIBO disrupts normal digestion and nutrient absorption.

Symptoms of SIBO include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation. However, it’s not just discomfort—SIBO can significantly impact quality of life, leading to chronic fatigue, skin issues, weight loss, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. The underlying cause of SIBO is often another condition, and SIBO is a dysfunction of the gut that results from this primary issue.