Difference between IBS & IBD

Published On - 14/09/2021

Smiles Gastroenterology Crohns, IBD, IBS

It is very common for people to confuse and mix up Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD) with each other. Besides the fact that they share a few common symptoms and an identical acronym, these conditions are completely different. IBS and IBD are two distinct gastrointestinal problems that require different treatments. 

Keep reading to learn more about the differences and similarities.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome(IBS) Irritable Bowel Disease(IBD)
Type IBS is a functional disorder, classified as a condition IBD is a structural disorder, classified as a disease
What are they? Disorder of Gastrointestinal(GI) tract Inflammation or destruction of the bowel wall that harms intestine
Severity Not life-threatening Can be life-threatening
Similar symptoms
  • Stomach ache
  • Bloating
  • Diarrhoea/Constipation
  • A constant need to poop
Different symptoms
  • Nausea
  • Severe bloating
  • Fever
  • Blood in stool
  • Inflammation in your skin/joints/eyes
  • Weight loss/Loss of appetite
Pain The lower half of the abdomen
  1. Crohn Disease-Lower right side of the abdomen
  2. Ulcerative Colitis-Left side of the abdomen
Causes of symptoms Not clear Long-lasting inflammation in the digestive tracts
Diagnosis Usually diagnosed from symptoms Diagnosed from tests and scans. 
Cure There is no ultimate cure for both IBS and IBD. However, an expert doctor can help you in managing the symptoms.
Treatment Lifestyle changes Medications and surgery

 

Since the symptoms of both these disorders are similar, people tend to confuse these conditions. An expert gastroenterologist will recommend proper tests and treatment methods to identify and treat the condition. Find the best gastroenterologist In Bangalore from SMILES Hospital.

Doctors at SMILES Hospital offer a wide range of treatments for both IBS and IBD, according to their symptoms. IBS treatments usually include a therapeutic approach, dietary modifications, and pharmacological therapies. Treatment for IBD includes medications like anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and immunosuppressants, and lifestyle changes. If the IBD of the patient is not curable with medications or lifestyle changes, SMILES, being the best gastroenterology hospital in Bangalore, offers surgeries for both types of IBDs-Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Get the appropriate treatment and lead a higher quality of life with SMILES.