MI
A 24-year-old male asked:
Is small intestine bacteria overgrowth a cause of ibs?
1 doctor answer • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Charles Cattanoanswered
Gastroenterology 41 years experience
In some cases...: If you have ibs due to sibo (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)--antibiotics like xifaxan (rifaximin) may help. Sibo may also occur from anatomic variations in the small bowel, altered small bowel motility, or a variety of systemic conditions that prevent permanent cure (e.g. The bacteria just grow back). Xifaxan (rifaximin) is also helpful for c.Difficile in appropriate dose ; settings.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
MI
A 24-year-old male asked:
Small intestine bacteria overgrowth. Is this serious? How is it treated
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Saul Hymesanswered
pediatrics - Infectious Disease 17 years experience
Don't understand: I'm not sure what your question is referring to or how this was even diagnosed. Everyone has bacteria in their intestines--it is completely normal. Sometimes the composition and relative amounts can change after antibiotics or certain foods but there is no such thing as "bacterial overgrowth" despite many labs saying they will test you for it.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.1k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Jul 31, 2014
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