Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) in Hattiesburg, MS
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Find a ProviderWhat is small intestinal bacteria overgrowth?
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is an ailment that is triggered by an excess of bacteria in the small bowel. This usually occurs as a result of the slow pace at which food moves through the digestive system. In a lot of instances, SIBO can develop from food poisoning or long-term use of antibiotics. It may also result from abdominal surgery, structural disorders in the GI tract, and some diseases. The bacteria that cause SIBO often come from the large intestine. While they are normally a useful part of the digestive process, once they reach the small intestine, the gas they release has a harder time being passed from your body. They may also release toxins and disrupt normal digestion, causing discomfort and malnutrition.
If you're experiencing symptoms suggestive of SIBO, contact the gastrointestinal experts at Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC to request a consultation and diagnosis. Our providers offer treatment for patients suffering from ailments like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in Hattiesburg, MS.
Who is at risk of SIBO?
There are a number of risk factors for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Typically, the disorder is more likely to develop in individuals who:
- Recently underwent gastrointestinal surgery
- Are diabetic
- Suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Have sustained some kind of damage or defect in the small intestine
This is not an exhaustive list, so if you have reason to believe you may be living with SIBO, contact the local providers at Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC for more information on detecting and managing SIBO.
How do I tell if I might have SIBO?
There are many symptoms consistent with SIBO. Some of the most common signs are:
- Unexplained or unwanted weight loss
- Nausea
- Pain in the stomach
- Loose, watery stools
- Bloating
- Excess gas (belching and flatulence)
- Constipation
- Malnutrition
Please note that the symptoms of SIBO are also common for many other GI disorders. It is important that you partner with a GI specialist so you can receive a proper diagnosis and treatment for any bowel problems you're having. Contact Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC to request a consultation and arrange for a SIBO test at one of our Hattiesburg, MS gastrointestinal practices.
How is small intestinal bacterial overgrowth managed?
Before a treatment can be determined, you will need to confirm your ailment with a diagnosis. To accomplish this, the GI doctors at Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC will conduct what's called a breath test. For this exam, you will first need to drink a solution of lactulose, which contains sugar that can't be absorbed in the intestines. Once the bacteria in your bowels has had a chance to ferment the sugar, the physician will measure the level of hydrogen and methane exhaled from your lungs. An unusually high concentration of these gases indicates the overgrowth of bacteria in the small bowel.
Once a determination has been made, your gastroenterologist will work with you to form a SIBO treatment plan. They may recommend proceeding with a course of antibiotics, or your condition may be manageable with some simple changes in your diet, including restrictions on foods containing lactose (milk sugar) and the addition of nutritional supplements to rebalance your digestive system and ensure you're getting the vitamins and minerals you need. Request a consultation today to learn more about treatments for SIBO in Hattiesburg, MS.
You have options
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth can make day-to-day living more challenging, but you don't have to endure it alone. Our skilled gastroenterologists in Hattiesburg, MS have the technology and know-how to help you manage and find relief from SIBO symptoms. Contact Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC today to start on the road to recovery from your gastrointestinal problems.
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I cannot say enough good things about Hattiesburg GI Associates! The doctors, nurses, and all of the staff are wonderful! So kind and caring! We are very blessed to have this clinic and these physicians in South Mississippi. The care I have received has been phenomenal. You won’t find any better anywhere else!
Dr. Sanchez is truly an amazing physician. He replaces the fear of illness with trust in recovery. Doctors like you are hard to find. I thank God that you are my Dr. I recommended you to someone who is in the process of becoming your new patient. I thank God that you are my Dr. To you, Dr. Sanchez, l want to say thank you!
He's very good has compassion he explains where you can understand i remand he is a very good doctor
He is a very careing Dr he listens to every detail very intensely! When I leave I know,he has my best interest at heart to make me well!
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