SMALL INTESTINAL BACTERIAL OVERGROWTH (SIBO) BREATH TEST

A baseline breath sample is measured by blowing into a sample collection bag. Following this, you will drink a sugar based testing solution. You will then repeat the breath samples at regular intervals. Testing duration is typically between 2-3 hours.

Yes the SIBO breath test measures both Hydrogen and Methane gases. Elevated Methane levels are commonly associated with Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth (IMO).

While the test is commonly referred to as a “SIBO test,” measuring Methane allows assessment for IMO alongside Hydrogen producing bacterial overgrowth.

SIBO can develop for many different reasons. The most common cause is a dysfunction of your normal intestinal motility.

If there are slow or uncoordinated muscular contractions in the small intestine, sluggish flow of intestinal contents can allow bacteria the opportunity to overgrow. The purpose of motility in the small bowel is to push debris and bacteria towards the colon. Motility dysfunction can be due to a number of different factors such as a history of food poisoning or post infectious IBS, diabetes, certain medications, nerve damage, or sometimes the cause is unknown.

Other factors that can increase the risk of developing SIBO can include (including but not limited to): a weak valve that separates the small and large intestine (this can result in the backflow of bacteria from the colon into the small intestine), post gastrointestinal surgery, post-radiotherapy, adhesions affecting the intestines, following bariatric surgery. inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, connective tissue disorders.

The camera that passes through your mouth only reaches the first part of the small intestine. If a bacterial overgrowth is present in the mid or distal part of the small intestine, it is unlikely to be detected.

A sample of fluid from the upper part of the intestine can be taken with the camera however, the samples are often contaminated with oral and pharyngeal bacteria as the camera is withdrawn through the mouth. The sample would then have to be cultured in a lab which is quite expensive and not traditionally done in Ireland for SIBO. The breath test can detect bacteria all the way through the proximal, mid and distal small intestine.

No. Helicobacter Pylori is an infectious bacteria that mainly affects the stomach and first part of the small intestine. We do test for Helicobacter Pylori in the clinic upon request.

The test can be performed in our clinic in Naas, Co Kildare. The SIBO test can also be performed at home using a home test kit (samples are returned to GastroLife for analysis).

Common symptoms of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) include bloating, excessive gas, abdominal pain or cramping, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, and food intolerances. Some people also experience fatigue, brain fog, and unexplained weight changes. If these symptoms persist or worsen after meals, it may be worth considering a SIBO test. *it is advisable to visit your GP to discuss new or worsening symptoms.

The breath test is currently the most widely used, non-invasive method for detecting SIBO. While no test is perfect, when performed correctly following the preparation guidelines, the breath test is a reliable tool for identifying abnormal bacterial fermentation in the small intestine.

Some medications can affect the accuracy of the SIBO breath test. Always follow the preparation instructions provided and consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your medication.

You’ll need to follow a special preparation diet the day before your test, avoiding fermentable foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy, grains, alcohol, and sugar. After the preparation day, you’ll fast overnight for 12 hours before taking the test.

The breath test typically takes between 2 and 3 hours. During the test, you’ll drink a sugar solution and then provide breath samples at regular intervals. These samples are analysed for hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria in your small intestine.

Yes — at-home SIBO breath test kits are available and can be a convenient option. You’ll follow the same preparation instructions, perform the test in your own space, and send the samples back to GastroLife for analysis.

For some people, SIBO can be a recurring issue, particularly if underlying causes aren’t addressed. Common triggers include impaired gut motility, abdominal surgery, or conditions like IBS. While it can be managed effectively with treatment and lifestyle adjustments, some individuals may need ongoing support to maintain gut health.

Diet plays an important role in managing symptoms and preventing relapse, but it’s typically not enough to fully eradicate bacterial overgrowth on its own. A low-FODMAP diet can help reduce symptoms and bacterial load, but most cases of SIBO require antimicrobial or antibiotic treatment for effective clearance.

SIBO testing is recognised and used by many gastroenterologists, functional medicine practitioners, and digestive health specialists worldwide. Clinical guidelines from groups such as the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) and British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) acknowledge the role of breath testing in diagnosing conditions like SIBO, particularly in patients with unexplained bloating, diarrhoea, or IBS-type symptoms.