Understanding SIBO: When Gut Bacteria Go Where They Shouldn’t

Many people live with uncomfortable digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, and stomach pain without ever knowing why. If this sounds familiar, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of IBS—but there’s another condition that could be the real culprit: SIBO, short for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth.

SIBO happens when bacteria that are normally found in the large intestine start to grow in the small intestine, where they don’t belong. The small intestine is where most of your food is broken down and absorbed, so when too many bacteria invade this space, they interfere with digestion and cause a chain reaction of unpleasant symptoms.

People with SIBO often report:

• Bloating that gets worse throughout the day

• Excessive gas or burping

• Abdominal discomfort or cramping

• Diarrhea, constipation, or both

• Nutrient deficiencies or unintended weight loss

What’s tricky about SIBO is that its symptoms overlap with other common digestive issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or even acid reflux. In fact, studies show that a large percentage of people who have been diagnosed with IBS actually have SIBO—but without proper testing, it’s easy to miss.

So what causes SIBO in the first place?

There are several potential triggers. These include slowed digestion due to aging, diabetes, or nerve issues; previous gastrointestinal infections; structural problems in the intestines; or the long-term use of certain medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Whatever the cause, the result is the same: fermentation of food in the wrong place, leading to discomfort and inflammation.

If left untreated, SIBO can interfere with your body’s ability to absorb nutrients, leading to fatigue, brain fog, and even vitamin or mineral deficiencies over time. That’s why it’s important to get the right diagnosis and care.

Fortunately, help is available.

Dr. Jack Husney, a highly regarded gastroenterologist in New York, specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like SIBO. At his top-rated office, patients receive personalized care that may include breath testing, tailored nutrition plans, and specific antibiotic or herbal treatments to reduce the excess bacteria. Dr. Husney’s holistic approach ensures that you’re not only treated but also supported in preventing SIBO from returning.

If you’ve been living with chronic bloating, unpredictable digestion, or stomach pain that seems to come out of nowhere, it may be time to ask: could it be SIBO?

The good news is that with the right diagnosis and care, you can heal your gut, feel better, and get back to enjoying food—and life—again.