digestive disorders
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Introduction
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is a disorder in which poor movement of intestinal contents allows certain normal intestinal bacteria to grow excessively, causing diarrhea and poor absorption of nutrients ( Overview of Malabsorption ). Some conditions and disorders slow or stop the movement of contents through the intestines. People have abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, bloating, and excessive flatulence. The diagnosis is based on symptoms, particularly in people who have had certain types of surgery or who have certain disorders, plus the results of a breath test or an intestinal fluid culture. Antibiotics can eliminate the excess bacteria. 