IBS & SIBO: Diagnosis and Treatment

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is both an extremely common and extremely uncomfortable condition.

The symptoms can include from diarrhea, constipation, alternating diarrhea/constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, and more. The symptoms can negatively affect quality of life.  

Recent research has shown that close to 60% of those with symptoms of IBS (or have already been diagnosed with IBS) actually have a condition known as Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO).

Naturopathic medicine has a great deal to offer in the treatment of SIBO (as well as other digestive complaints). The treatment of SIBO is aimed at reducing the bacterial overgrowth and incorporates anti-microbials, dietary changes, and working to ensure the digestive tract is functioning as it should.

Dr. Murray is very passionate about educating her patients about SIBO: why it occurs, how to diagnose it, which diet would be appropriate, and what treatments are needed and when. She feels very fortunate to have learned from Dr. Siebecker and Dr. Sandberg-Lewis, two experts in SIBO, during her time at NCNM. Dr. Murray has experience with both diagnosis and treatment of SIBO and continues to increase her knowledge daily through reading up to date scientific research.

If you have been diagnosed with IBS or believe you have SIBO, you will want to discuss an evaluation for SIBO with your practitioner. While there are still some limitations to the diagnosis of SIBO, the breath test is currently the best option. It is recommended is to discuss with a practitioner who has experience with working with the diagnosis and treatment of SIBO.
For more information on SIBO, contact Dr. Murray and she will be happy to discuss it with you further; it is one her favorite topics. Dr. Murray also has experience and interest in working with a variety of other digestive disorders (such as reflux and food sensitivities) and is happy to work with you to address them.