SIBO Testing
What is SIBO testing?
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when there is an increase in the overall bacterial population in the small intestine (the duodenum).
It causes unpleasant gastric symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, bloating, discomfort after eating and abdominal pain.
SIBO Testing
A diagnosis of SIBO requires testing to check bacterial overgrowth within the small intestine. The most frequently used methods of diagnosis are.
Breath Testing
A breath test measures the amount of methane or hydrogen breathed out after drinking a glucose-water mixture. Rapid rises in hydrogen or methane may be indicative of SIBO. It’s not the most specific method of testing but gives an indication of SIBO. It is a quick test that can be done in the doctor’s office by breathing into a device.
Aspirate and Fluid Cultures
To confirm SIBO, a gastroenterologist needs to analyse aspirate/fluid cultures from the small intestine (duodenum). Through the use of an endoscope (a thin flexible tube passed down the throat and stomach) the doctor will take a sample of intestinal fluid from the small intestine. This is sent to a specialist lab to confirm the level of bacterial growth.
Other tests
In addition to these specific tests, blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies and anaemia are useful. Stool evaluation to measure fat absorption levels can also be helpful.
What is the next step after diagnosis?
Once a patient is diagnosed with SIBO, an experienced Gastroenterologist will be able to recommend any underlying causes of SIBO which need to be addressed and then develop a personalised treatment plan for the patient encompassing antibiotic therapy and nutritional support.
Get In Touch
For any enquiries about conditions, tests or treatments, please feel free to call Dr Rehan Haidry’s medical secretary Debra Hyams on:
Tel: 0203 423 7609 | Email: rhaidrymedsec@ccf.org