This is the direct microbiological analysis of SIBO. An increase in the amount of these gases is indicative of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. Therefore, a breath test measures the amount of these gases in the air we exhale after consuming a sugar solution (usually glucose or lactulose solutions). The bacteria crowded in the small intestine digest the sugars we consume and release hydrogen and methane as the end products. It is the most popular test to diagnose SIBO. After this, the following tests are performed based on the patient's medical history and health conditions. To diagnose SIBO, the doctor first performs a physical examination to evaluate the malabsorption and underlying abdominal issues. How is Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth diagnosed? The poor absorption of vitamin D and calcium can cause bone diseases like osteoporosis (weak and brittle bones) and osteomalacia (soft bones).ĭue to the complications developed by SIBO, like diarrhea, some people might experience dehydration frequently.Īs SIBO disturbs the balance of the gut microbiome, it may induce a harmful immune response in the gut, causing mucosal inflammation in some people. Medications eg: Narcotics (Slow down intestinal movement) and Proton pump inhibitors (Reduce acid production in the gut).Certain health conditions like scleroderma (hardening of the skin).Gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn's disease, Diverticulosis, Irritable bowel syndrome, Gastroparesis, Celiac disease, and Pancreatitis.

Abdominal surgeries that could create a loop of the small intestine eg: Gastrectomy, Ileostomy.Rare congenital abnormalities (abnormalities that are present from birth) like short bowel syndromein which people are born with short small bowels.The causes of the above conditions could be. These conditions prevent the movement of food particles and bacteria through the small intestine, allowing them to thrive there for a long time and multiply. Decrease in the movement of the gastrointestinal tract.Reduction in the acid production of the gastrointestinal tract.The bacterial overgrowth syndrome occurs mainly when anyone of the following three conditions arises or prevails in our digestive system. What are the Causes of Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth?

Small bowel intestinal overgrowth