Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) refers to an increase in the number of bacteria in the small intestine. This can lead to a variety of symptoms that are often misdiagnosed as other conditions such as IBS and depression. SIBO is often caused by a dysfunction in the ileocecal valve, which separates the small intestine from the large intestine. This can allow bacteria to travel from the large intestine into the small intestine, where they can rapidly multiply and don’t belong. SIBO is also associated with a number of other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and celiac disease.
SIBO can lead to a range of symptoms including:
There are several potential factors that contribute to the development of SIBO. These include persistent use of antibiotics, impaired gut motility, overeating, over consumption of alcohol, unchecked food intolerances and a diet high in carbohydrates. SIBO is also more common in people with certain medical conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and diabetes. If you think you may have SIBO, it is important to find the right practitioner who knows how to test for it.
MorningStar Family Health Center serves practice members throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania with options for follow-up telemedicine appointments after an inpatient appointment for practice members outside of those states.