If you’ve ever experienced persistent digestive issues, bloating, or discomfort, you might have come across the term Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). SIBO is a condition where an abnormal growth in bacteria happens in the small intestine. This inequality can prompt a scope of gastrointestinal side effects and affect your general wellbeing.
Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, a renowned specialist in GI Cancer Surgery in Chennai, provides information on managing SIBO and improving your quality of life. In this blog, Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy refines what SIBO is, its causes, its symptoms, and most importantly, how to manage and treat this condition effectively.
What is SIBO?
The small intestine plays an important role in digesting and absorbing nutrients from our food. Normally, the small intestine has a relatively low bacterial count reached to the large intestine. However, in individuals with SIBO, there is an excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine, which interferes with normal digestive processes.
Who is at Risk?
Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is an expert on managing gastrointestinal (GI) digestive disease in Chennai. He clarifies that specific factors may increase the risk:
- Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Structural Anomalies
- Age
- Recent Abdominal Surgery
- Immunodeficiency
What are the Symptoms or indications of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO):
The symptoms can vary and overlap with other stomach related messes, making analysis testing. Common indications include:
- Abdominal Pain and Discomfort: People often feel abdominal pain, cramping, and general discomfort.
- Bloating and Distension: Extreme gas production by bacteria in the small intestine can lead to bloating and a visibly distended abdomen.
- Diarrhoea or Constipation: It can disrupt the normal balance of gut flora, leading to changes in bowel habits, including diarrhoea or constipation.
- Nutritional Lacks: The overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine can interfere with nutrient absorption, potentially showing deficiencies in important vitamins and minerals.
- Fatigue: The ongoing idea of SIBO and influence on supplement retention can add to weariness and a general feeling of unwellness.
How to Diagnose SIBO?
Accurate diagnosis is important for useful treatment. At GEM Hospital, Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is the best Robotic Surgeon in Chennai and He uses advanced diagnostic methods to pinpoint SIBO:
- Breath Tests: The lactulose or glucose breath test is a common diagnostic tool. It counts hydrogen and methane gases in the breath after consuming a sugar solution. Raised levels of these gases demonstrate bacterial excess.
- Small Bowel Aspiration and Culture: This test includes taking a piece of fluid from the small intestine and culturing it to specify the presence and quantity of bacteria.
- Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies like abdominal ultrasound or CT scans may be used to identify structural anomalies that could be contributing to SIBO.
How to Managing and Treating SIBO?
Managing SIBO concerns addressing the underlying causes, reducing bacterial overgrowth, and alleviating signs. Here are key strategies guided by Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy for managing SIBO:
- Antibiotic Therapy: Antibiotics like rifaximin, metronidazole, or tetracycline are used to reduce bacterial overgrowth. The decision of anti-toxin and therapy length relies upon the particular microscopic organisms and the seriousness of the situation.
- Dietary Changes: A low-FODMAP diet can help reduce signs by limiting fermentable carbohydrates. Working with a dietitian to make a customized plan is suggested.
- Probiotics: Certain probiotics may help restore gut bacteria balance, but it’s important to consult with a Dr. Gurumurthy before starting supplements.
- Addressing Underlying Conditions: Treating conditions like motility disorders or structural issues that contribute to SIBO is important for useful management.
- Lifestyle Changes: Routine workout, stress management, and suitable hydration support overall gut health and sign management.
- Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular check-ups with Dr. Gurumurthy are important to adjust therapy plans and prevent recurrence.
Preventing Recurrence:
Dr. Gurumurthy said that Once SIBO is treated, it is important to take steps to prevent recurrence. This may involve:
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Managing underlying medical conditions
- Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
- Minimizing stress
- Regularly monitoring your symptoms
Living with SIBO:
Living with SIBO needs persistence and obligation to dealing with the condition really. Support from medical services experts, including dietitians and gastroenterologists, can have a massive effect in your personal satisfaction.
Meet Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy:
Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is a leading expert in liver disease treatment and liver transplant surgery, with vast experience in handling complex gastrointestinal problems. His expertise and loyalty to patient care make him a useful help for those struggling with SIBO and other digestive issues. If you’re seeking personalized care and effective management strategies for SIBO, Dr. Gurumurthy can provide the advice and support you need.
For more information call and Book an online Appointment with Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy.
