Overview

SIBO stands for “small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.” It’s normal and healthy to have bacteria living in your small intestine, but too many can cause problems with your digestion — especially if they’re the wrong kind. The wrong bacteria can overwhelm the beneficial bacteria that you need to be there, and they can upset your digestive system by feeding on products that aren’t meant for them.

Bacteria in your small intestine digest carbohydrates and convert them into gas and short-chain fatty acids. More bacteria can mean more gas and other byproducts. When more bacteria are present and feasting, you might notice you feel gassier than usual. The bacteria also consume proteins and vitamin B12 meant for your body, and bile salts that are supposed to be there to help you digest fats.

All of this leads to poor digestion of fats and poor absorption of nutrients, especially calcium and fat-soluble vitamins. The result is a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms in the short term, and malnutrition in the longer term. Over time, vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause lasting damage to your bones and nervous system.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.
The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Diabetes.
  • Heart failure.
  • Some types of heart valve disease.
Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:
  • Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
  • Don't smoke or use tobacco.
  • Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
  • Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Reduce and manage stress.


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