If you’ve been managing bloating, gas, or IBS-type symptoms that never quite resolve, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO, may be part of the picture. Dr Jaimini Raniga brings over 40 years of integrative and functional medicine experience to help you understand what’s driving your gut symptoms in Castle Hill, Sydney.

What Is SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)?

SIBO occurs when bacteria that normally live in the large intestine grow in excess in the small intestine, where far fewer bacteria are meant to be present. This imbalance can interfere with normal digestion and nutrient absorption.

SIBO overlaps closely with IBS. Many people who have been diagnosed with IBS, and whose symptoms haven’t fully settled with standard management, may benefit from being assessed for SIBO specifically.

Signs and Symptoms of SIBO

Symptoms of SIBO can vary, and may include:

• Bloating: often worse after eating, and a very common presenting symptom
• Excess gas and flatulence
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Diarrhoea, constipation, or both at different times
• Fatigue
• Nutrient deficiencies: as bacterial overgrowth can interfere with absorption of certain vitamins and minerals over time

What Can Contribute to SIBO?

A number of factors may contribute to the development of SIBO, including:

• Slowed gut motility: when the small intestine doesn’t clear bacteria through as efficiently as it should
• Structural issues affecting the digestive tract
• Prior gut infections
• Long term use of certain medications, including some acid-suppressing medications
• Other digestive conditions, including a history of IBS or coeliac disease

Assessing and Managing SIBO

If SIBO is suspected based on your symptoms and history, Dr Jaimini will discuss the most appropriate way to investigate this further with you, which may include specific testing where clinically indicated. From there, an integrative approach to managing SIBO may involve:

• Addressing the underlying cause: rather than only managing symptoms
• Dietary guidance: under professional supervision, since restrictive gut protocols should not be self-managed
• Supporting gut motility and gut healing
• Working alongside your existing gut health management, including any current approach to IBS or leaky gut

Dr Jaimini manages SIBO on a case-by-case basis, and for more complex or resistant presentations, may refer you on to an appropriate specialist. Any treatment plan is individualised to your specific presentation, and discussed with you in detail, including realistic expectations, before you begin.

What to Expect at Your SIBO Consultation

Your consultation starts with a thorough discussion of your symptoms, digestive history, and any previous testing or diagnoses. Dr Jaimini will talk you through the most appropriate next steps for your situation, which may include further assessment, before working with you on a personalised management plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between SIBO and IBS?

IBS is a diagnosis based on a pattern of digestive symptoms. SIBO is a specific cause of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine that can produce IBS-like symptoms. Someone with IBS symptoms that haven’t resolved with standard management may benefit from being assessed for SIBO specifically.

How is SIBO assessed?

Assessment typically starts with a detailed symptom and health history, with further testing considered where clinically appropriate. Dr Jaimini will discuss the right approach for your individual situation.

Can SIBO symptoms return after treatment?

Because SIBO is often linked to an underlying cause, such as slowed gut motility, symptoms can return if that underlying cause isn’t also addressed. This is why an integrative approach looks at root causes, not just symptom relief.

Book a SIBO Consultation in Sydney

Contact Dr Jaimini Raniga today to discuss your gut health. Based in Castle Hill, Sydney. Enquire Now