IBS and SIBO

[talkhealth]

Hi, how does IBS differ from SIBO and is there anywhere in the north east where I can get tested for it? Thank you.

[Wendy Green]

Hi

SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), as the name suggests, is where there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine.

SIBO can cause similar symptoms to IBS - including diarrhoea, bloating, gas, abdominal cramps and nausea. In fact it's thought that SIBO may be the cause of some people's IBS symptoms.

SIBO is usually detected using a hydrogen breath test. Treatment is with antibiotics. It seems that several NHS hospitals in the North of the England do the test - including Salford Royal and Hull and Nottingham Teaching Hospitals - but I've been unable to find details of its availablity specifically in the North East. I'd suggest speaking to your GP about your symptoms and about the possibility of being referred to the nearest centre that does the test.

I hope this helps.

[Dr Jamal Hayat]

There are risk factors for SIBO including recurrent use of antibiotics and acid suppressants, having previous stomach or intestinal surgery and if your immune system is lowered. It is important to have other conditions ruled out before putting symptoms down to SIBO - your GP will may want to refer you to a local specialist to go through your symptoms in more details and what investigations may be necessary.