Despite their similar names — and some overlapping symptoms — irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are very different.
As a gastroenterologist, I’m often asked about each of these conditions and how they overlap. In addition to their similar names, both are gastrointestinal conditions that can trigger abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements that can disrupt your daily life.
But the causes — the effects of IBD and IBS on patients’ health — vary. So do treatments. That’s why getting the right care for your condition is crucial.
Here’s a quick look at some of the key differences between IBD and IBS:
IBD | IBS |
Considered a disease | Classified as a syndrome with a group of symptoms |
Causes inflammation and can damage the intestines | Does not damage the intestines |
Can raise colorectal cancer risk | Does not raise colorectal cancer risk |
Detectable with imaging tests | No disease seen during colon exams |
Treatment aims to control inflammation | Treatment targets symptoms |
To understand why these differences matter, it helps to know more about each condition. Here’s what I wish everyone knew about IBS and IBD.
What is IBD?
IBD is a lifelong condition that causes inflammation and sores in the digestive tract. It develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy bowel tissue. There are two main types of IBD:
- Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation only in the colon (large intestine).
- Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract.
The symptoms of IBD can come and go during periods of flareup and remission. The main symptoms are diarrhea and stomach pain. That’s similar to IBS.
However, with IBD, patients may also have more severe symptoms, such as tiredness, fever, weight loss or rectal bleeding.
More than 1 million people in the U.S. have IBD. Without treatment, it can damage the gastrointestinal tract and raise the risk of colorectal cancer.
What is IBS?
IBS is also a chronic condition of the digestive tract. It affects up to 15% of U.S. adults, making it the most common condition gastroenterologists diagnose.
People with IBS usually have abdominal pain or cramps along with diarrhea, constipation, or both. Some people have these symptoms after eating or when they’re stressed, and the discomfort often eases after they use the toilet. Other IBS symptoms can include excessive gas or mucus in the stool.
IBS is a functional disorder, meaning the digestive tract looks normal but does not work like it should. That’s one way it differs from IBD. And unlike IBD, IBS doesn’t damage the digestive tract or raise the risk of colorectal cancer.
The exact cause of IBS remains unknown. But it may have to do with how the brain and gut function together during digestion. For example, the muscles that move through the digestive tract may not function properly, causing food to pass too quickly or too slowly. Also, people with IBS may have highly sensitive intestines.
When to see a doctor
It’s time to see a doctor if you’re dealing with ongoing gastrointestinal issues, like diarrhea, cramping, or constipation. Seeing a doctor is especially important if you have symptoms like rectal bleeding or weight loss. Those can be signs of IBD or of other serious conditions.
Your doctor will do a physical exam and ask you about your symptoms. You might need lab, imaging, or other tests to rule out other conditions or to confirm a diagnosis of IBD. There isn’t a single test that can diagnose IBS.
Treating IBD and IBS
IBD and IBS are managed differently.
When I see patients with IBS, I focus on symptom relief. Strategies may include:
- Dietary changes. Limiting foods that trigger your IBS may help you have fewer symptoms. Common food triggers include dairy, gluten, and foods and beverages that cause a lot of gas.
- Stress management. Many people have IBS symptoms that are triggered by stress.
- Medications. A variety of medications can ease symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, pain, and cramping.
When I see patients with IBD, I recommend treatments aimed at keeping the disease in remission and managing the impact of symptoms. Treatments for IBD include:
- Medications. Medicines can reduce inflammation in the GI tract and help with IBD symptoms. Some medicines can help prevent flare-ups. Others, such as steroid injections, may be used during a flare-up.
- Lifestyle changes. As with IBS, managing stress and limiting certain foods can help ease symptoms. To ensure adequate nutrition, consulting your doctor or a dietitian is important.
- Surgery. Surgery is sometimes an option for severe IBD. Options can range from advanced surgeries to minimally invasive procedures.
Take control of your digestive health
One thing IBD and IBS have in common? They can be managed with the right care. For expert diagnosis and a wide array of treatment options, you can turn to the Temple Digestive Disease Center and initiatives like the Motility Disorders Program for IBS and the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program for those with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
To make an appointment with a Temple gastroenterologist, call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or schedule an appointment online.
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