Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

Overview

Too many bacteria grow in the small intestine.

They cause gas, bloating, and loose stools.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Bloating and gas
• Bloating or gas

Less common

• Diarrhea

When to get medical care

Causes

Slow gut, surgery.

Does it spread or run in families?

• The illness itself usually isn't passed to others, but some germs that cause it can spread.
• Washing hands often helps.

Who is more likely to get it

• Diabetes
• Past bowel surgery

Possible complications

• Malabsorption (gut can't absorb food): Can lead to weight loss
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: Bacteria use up B12

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Breath test:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Eat smaller meals
• Keep a food diary

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Older adults: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Outlook depends on the cause; early care helps.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)