Microbiome dysbiosis is such a big influence on our health, it should be part of family doctor and primary care physicians routine checkup. Sadly, most doctors are either not aware or not comfortable due to lack of knowledge or training to run most of the crucial tests for it. These would include comprehensive stool and nutrient, urine metabolite types of tests.
It can cause nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivities, auto immune reactions, to name a few, with a subsequently large list of potential symptoms. For some reason the link is often missed by doctors, but also sufferers. Good bacteria help with breaking down lactose, gluten, phytates and help produce certain B vitamins. Overgrowth in the wrong places can create a biofilm that hinders absorption of nutrients from food, not to mention some nutrients are used as food for the bacteria instead of our needs.
An antibiotics cure is like unleashing an atom bomb in the microbiome that does not discern between good and bad bacteria. Of course this is necessary on occassion, but we have to be a bit careful with its use. It will also require a little extra help immediately in re-populating good bacteria through pre- and pro-biotic food and high quality supplements.
Many people do not realize the slow, stealthy impact of tap water (and ice cubes) on our microbiome with added chlorine and chloramines (ammonia + chlorine) in some countries. Add to that the excessive sugar (often hidden in different marketing names) in food and drinks, antibiotics (certain herbicides are also antimicrobial) in food and animal feed and it can easily cause issues.
It does require discipline and desire in stemming the insults that we have control over, awareness of food and water quality intake. Just an example, but in my immediate surroundings there are quite a few people that will complain of heartburn, acid reflux, bloating, mindfog etc., and just take antacids or PPIs to help with symptoms, but still continue insulting their body with bad food and drinks.
A reset or elimination diet as Monty79 mentioned is very important to start. Addressing SIBO, candida or any other pathogen is important. Fixing nutrient deficiencies is also key. Rebuilding the microbiome and intestinal mucosa will bring so many improvements, but initially might be tough to do.
Really glad to read about the improvements made by Monty79!!