Anyone who suffers from stomach issues may be interested in the difference between IBS and IBD. Both are chronic conditions with similar symptoms, but they are different in significant ways.
What is IBS?
IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a lower GI condition affecting the small intestine, large intestine, and colon. Although termed a syndrome, IBS is a disease, and Cedar Sinai’s Dr. Mark Pimentel theorizes that it is caused by severe food poisoning, which at least 70% of patients have experienced in the past.
Symptoms of IBS
The symptoms of IBS include gas, bloating, and chronic diarrhea. Some patients also suffer from constipation.
IBS Treatment
Treatment for IBS includes antibiotics for some patients. Others require a change in diet and even medication (like rifaximin) to control the symptoms because they keep returning. Doctors can diagnose IBS through a simple blood test.
What is IBD?
IBD (irritable bowel disease) is a broad term that covers a variety of illnesses such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, both of which cause inflammation of the intestines. IBD is harder to diagnose and more serious, and the severity of symptoms depends on many factors such as genetics and immune system deficiencies.
Symptoms of IBD
Some of the symptoms of IBD are diarrhea, fever, loss of body fluids, blocked bowels, loss of appetite, extreme weight loss, bloody stool, abdominal cramps, and anemia.
IBD Treatment
Unfortunately, diagnosing IBD can be difficult and may take months, including various lab tests, endoscopic procedures, and physical exams. Once confirmed, IBD treatment may include antidiarrheal drugs, lifestyle changes, antibiotics, and sometimes surgery to correct the issue. Management of IBD is critical to the health and wellbeing of the patient.
The Difference Between IBS and IBD
IBS may be uncomfortable for the patient and could lead to more serious conditions. However, it is rarely life-threatening. On the other hand, IBD includes some more severe illnesses. Due to the immune system being compromised, patients may suffer more acutely and potentially require hospitalization or more urgent care.
If the chronic symptoms listed above sound familiar, contact the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay today for an exam to rule out either of these causes.