Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is caused by an abnormal increase of bacteria in the small intestine. Typically, the overgrowth involves bacteria types not usually found in the digestive tract. Unfortunately, SIBO can be difficult to diagnose due to the many similarities it shares with other digestive disorders. At Functional and Metabolic Medicine of Colorado, our experience with digestive disorders enables us to help patients struggling with gut imbalances.

Signs and Symptoms of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

Digestive issues are telltale signs of this condition. In addition to causing discomfort, bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine can also cause serious changes in the way that you tolerate food. Here’s a look at the most common symptoms:

  • Abdominal pain.
  • Nausea.
  • Bloating.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Uncomfortable fullness after eating.
  • Unintentional weight loss.
  • Malnutrition.

Balancing “good” and “bad” bacteria in the gut is essential during treatment. This can be a complicated process that requires tailored treatments based on your unique gut microbiome. The fact that SIBO can impact nutrient absorption means that treating this condition goes beyond just reversing its causes. It’s often necessary to take steps to correct vitamin and nutrient deficiencies linked with SIBO-related malnutrition.

When to See a Doctor About Abdominal Pain After Surgery

See a doctor if you have any SIBO-like symptoms. Generally, gut bacteria will not balance out on its own. Severe abdominal pain, any abdominal pain lasting more than a few days, rapid weight loss and persistent diarrhea are all reasons to see a doctor immediately.

Causes of SIBO

Unlike many digestive disorders that have murky origins, the causes of this disease are very clear. This disease is caused by bad bacteria slipping into the small intestine. We most commonly see bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine develop following abdominal surgery. Surgery can be an opportunity for the passage of food and waste products to slow down. As a result, bacteria seize the opportunity to breed.

Risk Factors for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

A recent surgery is the most common risk factor. However, some diseases and structural abnormalities within the gastrointestinal system can also increase your risks. The list includes gastric surgery, a structural defect in the small intestine, an injury to the small intestine, fistulas, Crohn’s disease, diabetes and diverticulosis.

The link between surgery and SIBO is strong. However, you can’t rule out this condition as being the cause of your symptoms just because you haven’t recently had surgery. Overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine can happen spontaneously. What’s more, a previous abdominal surgery that left adhesions can also increase your risk level. Most people don’t realize that an older surgery has left them with adhesions because these adhesions may not produce symptoms or complications for a number of years. Bacteria overgrowth can happen to people of all ages.

Complications Tied to Bacterial Overgrowth in the Small Intestine

Untreated SIBO can lead to some very serious complications. Poor absorption of nutrients that leads to malnutrition is one of the biggest risks. People suffering from this condition are at greater risk for deficiencies of vitamins A, B12, D, E and K. A B12 deficiency that’s severe enough can cause dysfunction within the nervous system. There’s also a long-term risk for osteoporosis caused by poor calcium absorption. People with bacteria overgrowth are also at elevated risk for developing kidney stones.

See a Functional Medicine Doctor for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth Near Denver

If you’re suffering from any of the symptoms of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, it’s important to work with a doctor with an understanding of how bacterial imbalances in the digestive tract can impact your health. This can be a progressive problem because bacteria that has entered your small intestine won’t balance out on its own.

There are multiple tests for detecting vitamin deficiencies and malabsorption issues that can help to confirm a diagnosis. Imaging that detects structural abnormalities in the intestine can also be used to get a clearer picture. Please call (720) 791-2911 or email sipaymd@functionalmetabolicmedicine.com today to book your appointment with us at Functional and Metabolic Medicine of Colorado in Littleton, Colorado.