Why SIBO Keeps Coming Back: Looking Beyond Bacterial Overgrowth
Bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, and changes in bowel movements are common symptoms associated with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). While addressing bacterial overgrowth can be helpful, symptoms sometimes return. So, why does SIBO keep coming back?
The answer may involve more than the bacteria themselves.
What Causes SIBO and Chronic Bloating?
SIBO can develop when bacteria accumulate in the small intestine, where bacterial levels are normally lower. Factors such as changes in intestinal motility, digestive function, previous gastrointestinal infections, and the gut microbiome can influence the intestinal environment.
This is why recurring SIBO or chronic bloating may require looking at the bigger digestive picture.
The Role of Intestinal Motility
Normal intestinal movement helps move food and digestive contents through the gastrointestinal tract. It also helps prevent bacteria from remaining in the small intestine for too long.
When motility is disrupted, it can contribute to an environment where bacterial overgrowth is more likely to occur. For someone with recurrent symptoms, understanding intestinal motility can therefore be an important part of the evaluation.
SIBO, IBS and the Gut Environment
SIBO and IBS and bloating can share similar symptoms, but they are not the same condition. A history of gastrointestinal infection can also contribute to ongoing digestive symptoms, sometimes referred to as post-infectious IBS.
The gut microbiome and intestinal barrier are also important parts of digestive health. Rather than focusing only on bacterial overgrowth, it can be useful to consider how these different factors interact.
Testing for SIBO and Bloating
A SIBO breath test can help evaluate for certain patterns of bacterial overgrowth. However, testing is only one part of understanding chronic digestive symptoms.
Depending on a person's symptoms and history, a healthcare provider may also consider digestive function, bowel patterns, previous infections, intestinal motility, and other factors. In some cases, additional testing such as stool analysis may be appropriate.
Looking Beyond Bacterial Overgrowth
When SIBO or bloating keeps returning, the important question is not only how to address the overgrowth, but also what may be contributing to the digestive environment in the first place.
A naturopathic approach looks at factors such as digestion, intestinal motility, the gut microbiome, intestinal barrier function, nutrition, and lifestyle to better understand the individual digestive picture.
If you experience persistent bloating or recurring digestive symptoms, a personalized evaluation can help determine whether SIBO testing or further investigation may be appropriate.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Barnett, contact her office at 425-539-0800 or email staff@drclara.com. Her offices are conveniently located in Seattle and Bellevue, and appointments are also available via telemedicine. Most insurance plans are accepted.