The SIBO breath test identifies hidden bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine that may be responsible for persistent gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.
Understanding SIBO and Why Breath Testing Matters
Many patients are complaining of gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. These symptoms have become an epidemic in our time. We used to diagnose patients with irritable bowel syndrome. About fifteen years ago, Dr. Pimentel at Cedars-Sinai determined that patients with chronic bloating have bacterial overgrowth in their small intestines. A 3-hour breath test will indicate if you have methane or hydrogen-producing bacteria in your small intestine. Methane can cause constipation and a malodorous gas, and hydrogen can cause watery stool and cramps.
The breath test kit is provided for you to perform at home. The day before the test, you can only eat white rice, chicken broth, turkey, and eggs. After fasting for 8 hours, you will start collecting your breath in the provided tubes every 20 minutes. After the first breath collection, you will drink a lactulose solution. It generally takes two weeks for us to receive your results. Antibiotics and strong herbs such as Xifaxan, Neomycin, and Biocidin have greatly relieved many patients with chronic intestinal issues. A low FODMAP diet will be recommended after being done with antibiotics.
