IBS vs. SIBO: What’s the Difference?
If you’re experiencing chronic digestive issues, you may have heard of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). While these conditions share some similarities, they are actually quite different. Yet up to 70% of people diagnosed with IBS actually have SIBO (Ghoshal).
Here are five key differences to help you understand the distinction between IBS and SIBO.
Causes: The causes of IBS and SIBO are quite different. IBS is considered a functional disorder, meaning that the digestive system appears normal but is not functioning properly (ACG). The exact cause of IBS is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be related to issues with the gut-brain axis and changes in gut motility and sensitivity.
On the other hand, SIBO is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, which can occur due to a variety of factors including low stomach acid, impaired gut motility, and a weakened immune system (Sorathia).
Symptoms: While there is some overlap in symptoms between IBS and SIBO, there are also some distinct differences.
IBS is characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation (ACG). These symptoms can be chronic and may fluctuate over time.
SIBO, on the other hand, can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and malabsorption of nutrients. “Patients with SIBO may also suffer from unintentional weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and osteoporosis.” (Dukowicz)
Diagnosis: Diagnosing IBS typically involves ruling out other potential causes of digestive issues through a series of tests and evaluations. There is no one definitive test for IBS, but healthcare providers may use a combination of medical history, physical exam, and diagnostic tests such as stool analysis or colonoscopy (ACG).
SIBO is typically diagnosed through a breath test that measures the amount of gas produced by bacteria in the small intestine (Dukowicz).
Treatment: The treatment approaches for IBS and SIBO are quite different. IBS can be managed through dietary changes, stress management techniques, and possibly medication (ACG).
For SIBO, treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the overgrowth and may include antibiotics or herbal antimicrobials, as well as dietary changes to support gut health (Dukowicz).
Prognosis: While both IBS and SIBO can be chronic conditions, the prognosis for each is different. IBS is more than likely a bacterial imbalance and can be resolved. It is not something you have to endure. With proper management, many people with IBS are able to improve their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life (ACG).
SIBO can be more difficult to manage, and some people may experience relapses or require ongoing treatment to manage their symptoms (Dukowicz).
Don’t guess if your symptoms are SIBO or another cause of IBS. Self-diagnosis can cause stress and lead to lost time. At Neighborhood Naturopathic, we offer food sensitivity testing, breath testing for SIBO, and other diagnostic testing to evaluate your gut health. We can take the guesswork out of your diagnosis and treatment so you can find relief faster. Schedule time with one of our providers to help alleviate your bowel discomfort and give you solutions to achieve optimal wellness.
If you live in the Minneapolis/ St. Paul area and are curious about a naturopathic approach to your health or have questions about supplements, or IV Nutrient Therapy that might support your overall wellness, click here to schedule or call (612) 259-8529.
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Sources:
American College of Gastroenterology. “Irritable Bowel Syndrome.” American College of Gastroenterology, 2020, gi.org/topics/irritable-bowel-syndrome/.
Dukowicz, Andrew C et al. “Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: a comprehensive review.” Gastroenterology & hepatology vol. 3,2 (2007): 112-22. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3099351/
Ghoshal, Uday C et al. “Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Bridge between Functional Organic Dichotomy.” Gut and liver vol. 11,2 (2017): 196-208. doi:10.5009/gnl16126
Sorathia SJ, Chippa V, Rivas JM. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. [Updated 2022 Oct 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546634/