Confused between ibs and sibo. I wanna confirm which i have actually

Question #10384

277 days ago

508

Confused between ibs and sibo. I wanna confirm which i have actually - #10384

Gurtejpartap

I am confused whether i have ibs or sibo. I am suffering sincemarch 2025 and symptoms are fluctuating. Now my main symptom is stools are not clear. They are semi solid. Some times insuffer diarrhoea and sometimes everything becomes normal without changing any diet. My weight is also reduced by 3 kg and mymusclesbecome some soft.

Age: 26

Chronic illnesses: Sibo/ibs

Nhh

300 INR (~3.53 USD)

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Dr. Shayeque Reza

I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.

276 days ago

Investigation
Lactulose / Glucose Hydrogen Breath Test → To confirm SIBO
Stool Routine & Occult Blood
Celiac Panel (tTG IgA, total IgA)
CBC, ESR/CRP → Rule out inflammatory disorders
Serum B12, D3, Albumin → Check for malabsorption
RX,
1) Tab rifaximin 550
1 tab thrice daily for 2 weeks
2) Tab Drotin Ds
1 tab once daily before food for 2 weeks
3) Tab Darolac
1 cap after lunch for 4 weeks
4) Cap Becosule z
1 cap daily for 30 days
visit nearest physician.

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Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

276 days ago

Hello dear
Please be aware
I think as per clinical history it seems most probably ibs
Kindly get following tests done
Stomach ultrasound
Culture if required
Diet modification can bring improvement
Take lactulose or yog hurt and avoid vegetables like lady finger and potatoes
Share result with general physician for further details
Regards

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Dr. Alan Reji

I'm Dr. Alan Reji, a general dentist with a deep-rooted passion for helping people achieve lasting oral health while making dental visits feel less intimidating. I graduated from Pushpagiri College of Dental Sciences (batch of 2018), and ever since, I've been committed to offering high-quality care that balances both advanced clinical knowledge and genuine compassion for my patients. Starting Dent To Smile here in Palakkad wasn’t just about opening a clinic—it was really about creating a space where people feel relaxed the moment they walk in. Dental care can feel cold or overly clinical, and I’ve always wanted to change that. So I focused on making it warm, easygoing, and centered completely around you. I mix new-age tech with some good old-fashioned values—really listening, explaining stuff without jargon, and making sure you feel involved, not just treated. From regular cleanings to fillings or even cosmetic work, I try my best to keep things smooth and stress-free. No hidden steps. No last-minute surprises. I have a strong interest in patient education and preventive dentistry. I genuinely believe most dental issues can be caught early—or even avoided—when patients are given the right information at the right time. That’s why I take time to talk, not just treat. Helping people understand why something’s happening is as important to me as treating what’s happening. At my practice, I’ve made it a point to stay current with the latest innovations—digital diagnostics, minimally invasive techniques, and smart scheduling that respects people’s time. I also try to make my services accessible and affordable, because good dental care shouldn’t be out of reach for anyone.

274 days ago

Your fluctuating bowel habits, incomplete stools, and weight loss could indicate IBS, but SIBO is also possible given the unpredictable nature of your symptoms. A breath test for SIBO and stool analysis can help differentiate between the two conditions. Consult a gastroenterologist for proper diagnosis and a targeted treatment approach.

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Dr. Neeraj Agarwal

I’m an MBBS graduate with a deep commitment to providing meaningful, patient-first care. My clinical training has given me a solid understanding of how to assess and manage a wide variety of health conditions—both common and complex. But beyond just clinical skills, I’ve always believed that the heart of medicine lies in listening. That’s what I try to bring into every consultation: not just treatment, but genuine attention to the person in front of me. I have gained experience across general medicine, paediatrics, emergency care and preventive health. I have treated patients of different age groups and backgrounds, which has helped shaped a more flexible, to diagnosis and management. Whether someone comes with a new symptom or a routine check-up, I aim to deliver evidence-based treatment, explained clearly and tailored to the lifestyle. I’m especially focused on making care accessible and comfortable. Too often, patients feel rushed or confused when they leave a doctor’s office—I try to do the opposite. Taking time to explain options, risks, or even just what’s going on in simple terms is something I take seriously. Communication, I think, is just as important as any prescription. I actively stay updated with current medical guidelines and research, and I’ve been exploring areas of holistic care and preventive medicine too. The more we can do to catch problems early—or better yet, avoid them—the better the outcome for everyone. I’ve seen how small lifestyle changes, when supported properly, can make a big difference to long-term health. There’s still a lot to learn, of course. I think every good doctor keeps learning. But every patient I see teaches me something new, and I carry those lessons forward—with honesty, empathy, and the intent to keep improving.

275 days ago

The weight loss + soft muscle + fluctuating stool without clear trigger strongly point toward a gut flora imbalance, likely SIBO or dysbiosis.
If you want more clarity, do:
CBC, CRP, ESR – rule out inflammation
Stool routine + occult blood + calprotectin
Breath test (Lactulose/Methane) – if SIBO suspected strongly
Thyroid & Vitamin B12/D – as they affect weight & digestion
Try gut reset diet for treatment
Like adding probiotic Rice, moong dal, boiled vegetables (bottle gourd, pumpkin, carrot)
Jeera, ginger, ajwain water
Homemade buttermilk (diluted curd + pinch of hing)
Small meals every 3–4 hours
And avoid Milk, wheat, sugar, legumes, raw onion/garlic
Apples, mangoes, bananas, soda
Oily food, bakery, packaged food

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Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

193 days ago

Determining whether you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) can be challenging as both conditions can share overlapping symptoms, such as diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. However, there are distinguishing features that can help guide the diagnosis. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder often characterized by a pattern of symptoms that include abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits over time. These symptoms can fluctuate and are often influenced by stress, certain foods, or changes in daily routine. On the other hand, SIBO involves an excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine and can result in malabsorption issues, potentially leading to weight loss and nutrient deficiencies.
In your situation, the weight loss and nutrient-related issues like softer muscles lean towards a possible connection with SIBO, but this is not definitive without further testing. Diagnostic options like a lactulose breath test can help identify SIBO, while IBS is generally a diagnosis of exclusion, made after ruling out other conditions. Given the complexity and variability of your symptoms, it’s crucial you consult with a gastroenterologist. They can provide tailored guidance and may recommend specific tests or treatments such as dietary modifications, probiotics, or possibly antibiotics in the case of SIBO. If your symptoms, particularly the weight loss, continue to worsen or if new alarming symptoms like blood in stool or persistent pain occur, seek medical attention promptly. Aim to manage stress and monitor any dietary patterns or specific foods that may trigger symptoms, which can be helpful in managing IBS. Keep track of your symptoms and lifestyle factors, as this information will be valuable during your medical consultations.

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