When bacteria normally found in the large intestine become present in the small intestine, the digestive system may produce excessive hydrogen and/or methane gas, which can cause many gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation. This condition has historically been diagnosed as Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and either classified as hydrogen-related SIBO or methane-related SIBO. However, new guidelines outlining the distinction between each classification has led to the reclassification of methane-related SIBO as Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth (IMO), since methane in the gastrointestinal tract is produced by archaea, which is actually not a bacteria.
The Hydrogen and Methane Breath Test for SIBO & IMO can be ordered with either a lactulose or glucose substrate. Pediatric kits are also available.