S.I.B.O

[Summerlovin1]

I wanted to share something that helped me. A couple of months ago, I came across someone talking about SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) and how it can mimic or worsen IBS symptoms. My gastroenterologist was ready to discharge me after all my tests came back normal, but I felt defeated and begged for one last test—if it didn’t show anything, I was ready to accept it wasn’t gastro-related.

To my surprise, the test revealed I had SIBO, a bacterial overgrowth that’s treatable with antibiotics. While I might still have underlying IBS, SIBO was the main reason my symptoms got so unbearable this last year. I’m still on antibiotics, so I can’t comment on recovery yet, but if you feel stuck in a cycle of symptoms (like constant bloating, alternating constipation and diarrhea, and trouble digesting anything) despite ‘normal’ tests, keep pushing for answers. Sometimes, you have to advocate for yourself to get the right diagnosis!

[Shepherd777]

What are some of the tests one can have taken and which test showed you had SIBO?

[gussmithy]

What tests discovered the SIBO?

[xjrs]

The most common test for SIBO is a breath test. However, these tests are inaccurate and give many false positives. This is what happened to me.

More information here:

ibsresearcher.com/sibo/

Did your gastro give you Rifaximin? Was this through the NHS?

Did you try IBS remedies such as Alflorex probiotic 1st then FODMAP elimination and reintroduction? General IBS remedies discussed here:

ibsresearcher.com/

[MistyDay]

My SIBO was treated with antibiotics. It was a miracle cure.