Identifying and Treating Dysbiosis

A treatable condition called dysbiosis occurs when the balance of bacteria in the gut is disrupted. In some cases, dysbiosis will correct itself without the help of a doctor, only causing temporary discomfort. However, not all cases resolve themselves, and some patients may require medical intervention to get their gut health back on track.

The doctors at GastroCare LI understand just how disruptive gastrointestinal problems can be. Your digestive health plays a vital role in your body. If you are up against gastrointestinal distress, our team is ready to help you take action. Give us a call at 516-265-7049.

What Exactly Is Dysbiosis?

The body is full of bacterial colonies called microbiota. While the word bacteria may have somewhat of a negative connotation, but in this instance bacteria is a good thing. A balanced microbiota environment works to regulate gut health and ensure that everything is working as it should.

When dysbiosis occurs, people may experience the following symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Bloating
• Chest pain
• Nausea
• Upset stomach
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Trouble urinating
• Rash
• Bad breath
• Trouble concentrating
• Anxiety or depression

The symptoms that patients display will vary depending on the specific microbiota that is affected.

What Causes Dysbiosis?

You may have had dysbiosis before and never known it. The body tends to be extremely effective at healing itself unless there is something preventing it from doing so. The following factors can increase peoples likelihood to experience dysbiosis:

• Changes in diet – The introduction to new nutrients can shift the balance in your gut
• Chemical ingestion – Pesticides from fruit can cause a temporary disruption
• Excessive alcohol consumption – Can force your body to reallocate nutrients
• Antibiotics – New medications can affect the normal balance
• Lack of dental hygiene – allows an excess of bacteria to flourish
• Increased stress and anxiety – harms the immune system
• Unprotected sex –Exposes your body to new bacteria

Possible Treatments

While dysbiosis is very treatable, it can be an indication of more significant health problems like colitis, yeast infections, celiac disease, diabetes, liver disease, heart disease, and cancer. If you suspect that dysbiosis is the cause of your suffering, seek the help of a doctor for treatment.

A doctor will perform various diagnostic tests like collecting a urine sample, a stool sample, or a breath test. Depending on the results and the specifics of each case, treatment can include:

• Dietary adjustments – Adding more dark leafy greens and fish to the diet
• Vitamins and supplements –Vitamin B6 and B12, calcium, magnesium, and zinc
• Taking a prebiotic or a probiotic – These help regulate gut bacteria
• Adjusting medication – If an antibiotic caused dysbiosis, an alternative might be recommended

GastroCare LI Can Help 

If you are suffering from any kind of stomach issue, stop waiting for the situation to resolve itself. You may need medical assistance to recover, and the team at GastroCare LI is here to help. Many of our patients come to us feeling anxious and somewhat discouraged. Our doctors take pride in helping you get back to feeling like yourself. To speak with a member of our team about your specific needs, call us at 516-265-7049.