Understanding the difference between IBS versus IBD is like trying to figure out what sets reality dating shows apart.
(Is90 Day Fiancereally that different fromLove is Blind?
While IBS can be super painful, it doesnt cause inflammation in your G.I.
Pikovit44 / Getty Images / Stella Koh
tractwhich means the risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment are usually totally different for IBS and IBD.
IBS happens when the gut-brain connection is out of whack.
IBS is a disorder that impacts the large intestine (aka colon), according to theMayo Clinic.
All types of IBS can also come with gut pain too.
IBS is whats known as a functional gastrointestinal disorder.
What does that mean?
In a nutshell, your brain sends electrical signals throughout your body to control every action, including pooping1.
What are the symptoms of IBS vs. IBD?
But looking for a few subtle yet key differences can help you solve the puzzle.
Read on for the full picture of IBS vs. IBD symptoms.
The exact cause of IBS is a mystery.
tract, according to the NIDDK.
Ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease are separate conditions, but they do share a few risk factors.
How do you get an IBS diagnosis or an IBD diagnosis?
Theres no definitive test for IBS, so doctors typically diagnose it after excluding most other potential causes.
In addition to evaluating your symptoms, they may perform a host of exams to identify the problem.
Diagnosing IBD can be similarly time-consuming.
They may also test your poop to see if any blood is present.
An external recorder captures the images, and youll later poop the capsule out.
What does IBS treatment look like vs. IBD treatment?
Although IBS and IBD share commonalities, they arent managed in the same way.
The treatment of IBD is focused on controlling inflammation.
IBS treatment is about controlling the heightened sensitivity to whats going on in the gut, Dr. Hanauer says.
They may also recommend laxatives or prescription medications that boost the amount of fluid that gets into your poop.
One example is biologic drugs, which work by neutralizing a protein produced by your immune system.
A combination of these drugs may work better than one alone, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Your doctor may also recommend medications to address the side effects of your specific situation, like antidiarrheal drugs.
Its worth mentioning that Crohns disease treatment and ulcerative colitis treatment can also vary.
For example, people with extensive G.I.
damage from Crohns disease inflammation may need surgery to remove some of the affected tissue.
When Crohns disease inflammation causes abscesses, which are pockets of puss, antibiotics are generally prescribed.
There arentany diets to magically cure IBSor IBD, but eating certain foods can make you feel worse.
For example, fiber helps move food through your intestines quickly, which is helpful if you are constipated.
However,eating fiber-filled foods can make diarrhea worsefor some people with ulcerative colitis.
The bottom line: How can you tell the difference between IBS and IBD?
If youre experiencing any of the above symptoms, its worth checking in with a doctor.
Your primary care physician is a good place to start.
Make a list of your symptoms and what you think may be triggering them.
