Small Intestinal Bacterial and Fungal Overgrowth: Gut Health concerns
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when bacteria, which are usually limited to the colon, proliferate abnormally in the small intestine. This overgrowth can disrupt nutrient absorption and lead to symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and malnutrition. Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth (SIFO) Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth (SIFO) is a similar condition where fungi, especially Candida species, grow excessively in the small intestine, causing symptoms like nausea, bloating, and indigestion. SIFO is less well-known compared to SIBO but has been increasingly recognized in recent years. Lab Tests for SIBO and SIFO In Ethiopia, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools might be limited, but several accessible tests can still offer valuable insights: 1. Methane and Hydrogen Breath Tests These tests measure the levels of gases produced by bacteria or archaea in the gut. The patient ingests a sugar solution (lactulose or g...