IBS vs. IBD: What’s the Difference?

Navigating gastrointestinal health concerns can be daunting, especially when faced with symptoms like abdominal discomfort, irregular bowel patterns and unexplained fatigue. Understanding the differences between IBS and IBD can help you find the right treatment and management strategies, bringing you the comfort you deserve.

What are IBS and IBD?

IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder that manifests through symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation or a combination of both. Unlike IBD, IBS does not cause visible inflammation or damage to the intestines.

“We don’t know exactly why some people get IBS, but factors like stress, diet and gut-brain interactions play significant roles in its development,” said Riyadh S. Hammod, MD a gastroenterologist at Inspira Medical Center Vineland. “Patients with IBS often have gastrointestinal discomfort, but the condition itself does not increase the risk of more serious gastrointestinal diseases.”

IBD is a group of chronic inflammatory conditions, including Crohn's disease, which can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, and ulcerative colitis, which is limited to the colon and rectum. These conditions cause significant inflammation and tissue damage within the digestive tract. Symptoms of IBD can include persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue and weight loss.

“Like IBS, the exact cause of IBD is unclear, but it involves an abnormal immune response that targets the gastrointestinal tract, likely influenced by genetic and environmental factors,” said Dr. Hammod. “Unlike IBS, IBD can lead to serious complications such as narrowing of the intestine (called strictures), abnormal connections between different parts of the intestine or between the intestine and other organs (called fistulas) and an increased risk of colorectal cancer.”

How are IBS and IBD diagnosed?

Before diagnosing IBS and IBD, your doctor will ask you about your medical history and may conduct physical examinations, blood tests, stool samples, imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs and endoscopic procedures like colonoscopy to identify the presence and extent of inflammation. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and management, ensuring you receive the appropriate care for your condition.

Living with a chronic GI condition

Although IBS and IBD are chronic conditions, there are ways to manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. IBS treatment typically involves dietary modifications, stress management and medications to alleviate symptoms. These may include fiber supplements, antispasmodics to help reduce spasms in the digestive tract and laxatives or antidiarrheal medications.

“Managing IBD requires a tailored approach due to the condition’s inflammatory nature,” said Dr. Hammod. “Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants and biologic therapies to reduce inflammation and control the immune response.” In some cases, surgery may be needed to address complications. Regular monitoring and follow-up with your gastroenterologist are essential to adjust your treatment plan as needed.

With appropriate management strategies, individuals with IBS and IBD can lead healthier, more comfortable lives.

If you’re experiencing GI symptoms, Inspira gastroenterologists can help. Learn more.