5 Warning Signs Your Bloating Might Be SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

Do you feel like you balloon up after every meal, no matter what you eat? Occasional bloating is normal, but chronic, painful abdominal swelling could point to a deeper issue. 

At Los Angeles Gastroenterology Clinic in Santa Monica, California, S. Radi Shamsi, MD, and our team help people find answers for persistent and complex digestive symptoms.

If your bloating is accompanied by other persistent symptoms, it might be a sign of SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth). SIBO occurs when colonic-type bacteria multiply abnormally in the small intestine, disrupting normal digestion.

What are the warning signs of SIBO?

SIBO symptoms can overlap with many other digestive conditions, including IBS, so symptoms alone cannot confirm the diagnosis. Common signs that may warrant further evaluation include:

1. Persistent or recurrent bloating: Bloating is one of the most common symptoms of SIBO and may become more noticeable after eating.
2. Excess gas or flatulence: Bacterial fermentation in the small intestine can produce excess gas, contributing to bloating and discomfort.
3. Abdominal discomfort or pain: SIBO may cause abdominal pressure, cramping, or general discomfort along with bloating.
4. Diarrhea or loose stools: Changes in digestion and nutrient absorption can lead to diarrhea in some people.
5. Signs of nutrient malabsorption: In more significant cases, SIBO can interfere with nutrient absorption and contribute to problems such as vitamin B12 deficiency or unintended weight loss.

SIBO and IBS can also overlap. A 2026 systematic review and meta-analysis in Frontiers in Microbiology found that people with IBS had about 5.7 times the odds of having SIBO compared with healthy controls, although the included studies used different diagnostic methods. Because the symptoms of these conditions overlap, testing may be needed to determine what is causing persistent digestive problems.

How do we treat SIBO and bloating?

We address SIBO and persistent bloating through targeted antibiotic therapy to reduce bacterial overgrowth, along with supportive dietary changes and probiotic management tailored to your specific symptoms.

At our Santa Monica office, we focus on personalized care. We evaluate your unique digestive profile to determine the right course of antibiotics—typically taken for one to two weeks—and help adjust your diet to manage symptoms and support long-term gut health.

If you are tired of living with constant discomfort and suspect SIBO might be the culprit, you do not have to navigate this alone. Our team provides personalized, compassionate care to help you regain control of your digestive health. To start your path to relief, schedule a visit with us today.