Differentiating Digestive Disorders: IBS vs. IBD Symptoms Explained

Often mistaken for the non-inflammatory disorder irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), IBD and IBS, despite sharing similar names and symptoms, exhibit fundamental distinctions. Dive in to discern the nuances between IBD and IBS.

Here’s a look at the key differentiators between both these conditions:

Key Features of IBS and IBD

IBD and IBS are separate conditions, yet someone diagnosed with one might experience symptoms of the other. It's crucial to understand that both ailments can coexist. They are both classified as chronic conditions.

While they can affect individuals of all ages, there appears to be a genetic component involved.

What is IBD?

Inflammatory bowel disease refers to a group of disorders marked by prolonged inflammation in different parts of the digestive tract. The most prevalent type of IBD is ulcerative colitis.

The two primary conditions classified as IBD are:

Ulcerative colitis (UC): A lifelong condition characterized by recurring inflammation episodes in the mucosal layer of the colon. It typically affects the rectum and can spread to other colon areas.

Crohn’s disease (CD): CD can impact any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the anus. [Symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever.

Another form of IBD, indeterminate colitis, is diagnosed when tests cannot at first distinguish which form of IBD it is. Most cases of indeterminate colitis eventually evolve to a diagnosis of either CD or UC.

For both of these conditions, no cure is currently available, but they can be managed with medication.

What is IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a chronic functional disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by chronic abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. People with IBS show no clinical signs of a disease and often have normal test results.

IBS has physical symptoms, but the causes aren’t currently well understood. Researchers are currently looking into some potential causes, such as:

·       food intolerances (such as fructose, lactose, sucrose, or gluten)

·       a reaction from a previous infection

·       bacterial overgrowth

·       stress

Causes of IBS and IBD

The exact causes of IBS and IBD are still the subject of clinical study. Genetics and family history are thought to play a part in both.

IBS

The cause of IBS is not known for certain, but the following conditions are thought to increase your risk:

• bacterial infections in the intestines or colon
• food intolerances and sensitivities
• genetics, with a family history of IBS
• mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety

IBD

The exact cause of IBD is not known. It’s thought that the main trigger is an immune system that does not operate as it should. ResearchersTrusted Source now thinks that IBD arises through a combination of:

• genetics
• environmental factors, like stress
• the gut microbiota or the microorganisms that live in the body

Normally, the immune system limits the effects of harmful bacteria, viruses, and environmental toxins. In a person with IBD, the immune system falters, and inflammation develops in the GI tract.

Researchers also think genetics play a part in causing IBD. People with a family history of either ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease are at greater risk of developing these diseases.

Both IBS and IBD can lead to complications, especially if left untreated. These conditions affect not only the digestive system but your mental health as well.

IBS vs. IBD Symptoms

The symptoms of these conditions often overlap, leading to complex diagnoses. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) presents with a mix of abdominal pain, cramps, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, urgent bowel movements, bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, and a sensation of incomplete evacuation.

IBD can present similar symptoms to IBS, including:

• eye inflammation
• extreme fatigue
• intestinal scarring
• joint pain
• malnutrition
• rectal bleeding
• weight loss

If you experience symptoms of IBS, IBD, or both, it's crucial to consult a doctor or gastroenterologist to address your concerns.

Where is the Pain Located in IBS and IBD?

Abdominal pain is a common symptom found in both irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). In cases of IBD, individuals may also encounter pain in various other areas of their body.

For individuals with IBS, abdominal pain is notably the most frequently reported symptom. Studies indicate that three out of four individuals with IBS experience either continuous or frequent abdominal pain. This pain is typically localized in the lower abdomen, although it can manifest anywhere within the abdominal region. The nature and intensity of the pain can fluctuate throughout the day. Common types and sites of abdominal pain in IBS can involve:

Upper abdomen: Discomfort may escalate post-meals and is often accompanied by bloating.

Middle abdomen: Pain focuses on the central belly area and is commonly described as cramping.

Lower abdomen: Pain in this area typically alleviates post a bowel movement.

IBD pain

Abdominal pain is also a common symptom of IBD. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation estimates that 50 to 70 percent of people with IBD report gastrointestinal (GI) pain when their IBD symptoms first begin and, later, whenever the disease is active.

People also report pain associated with IBD in other parts of the body, such as:

• painful joints
• skin sensitivity
• eye discomfort
• oral sores
• pain around the rectum

Diagnosing IBS and IBD

Diagnosis of IBS and IBD are very different. IBD is diagnosed through a variety of tests, whereas IBS is diagnosed largely by exclusion, or ruling out other diseases and conditions.

IBS

Doctors do not order tests to diagnose IBS, although they may use test results to rule out other conditions.

Instead, an IBS diagnosis is usually made on the basis of:

medical history

family history

physical exam

symptom report

ruling out other conditions

The Rome IV criteria form is the basis for diagnosing IBS.

These criteria say a diagnosis can be made only after a person has had symptoms at least 1 day per week over the last 3 months and having symptoms that began at least 6 months ago.

Since IBS symptoms primarily involve your bowel movements, a diagnosis takes this into account as well. The Rome IV criteria for an IBS diagnosis specify that two of the following conditions must be met:

• Your symptoms are related to defecation.
• The frequency of your stool has changed.
• The appearance of your stool has changed.

Often, an IBS diagnosis is made only after many other diseases and conditions are ruled out. Since testing for other conditions can be a lengthy process, your IBS diagnosis may sometimes take weeks or even months.

IBD

Diagnosis of IBD, unlike IBS, will require medical tests. Any of these tests may be used to diagnose IBD, as well as rule out other medical conditions:

• stool studies
• blood tests
• biopsy
• X-ray
• MRI scan
• CT scan
• barium contrast study

Your doctor may also refer you for endoscopic evaluations, such as an esophagogastroscopy or colonoscopy, to evaluate the severity and extent of inflammation. These involve inserting a small tube with a camera into either the esophagus or the rectum.

During these exams, your doctor will likely collect tissue to biopsy to help differentiate between different types of IBD.

Takeaway

IBD and IBS may seem to share similar symptoms, but they are two different conditions with very different treatment requirements.

The Gastroenterology Associates of Tidewater offers gastroenterology in Hampton, VA to develop more effective treatments. We offer Irritable Bowel Disease treatment in Virginia Beach to let you live a good quality of life.

If you are suffering from irritable bowel disease in Virginia Beach, our gastrologist can help. Our gastroenterologist can help determine your specific condition and offer the best irritable bowel disease constipation treatment in Virginia Beach and resources to help you manage your symptoms. Schedule an appointment today.