IBS vs IBD: How These Different Disorders Affect Health

When speaking with your doctor or researching gastrointestinal health, you’ve probably heard the acronyms IBS and IBD. Since they sound similar, you may have assumed that they mean the same thing. However, this is not the case. The following infographic highlights the difference between IBS vs IBD (article continues below).

An Overview of IBS

IBS stands for irritable bowel syndrome. It’s not classified as a disease, but rather a common “functional disorder.” 

• IBS affects between 25-45 million people in the United States
• Approximately twice as many women than men have IBS
• IBS is more common in people under 45 years of age
• According to studies, people who have a family member with IBS may be at higher risk

An Overview of IBD

IBD stands for inflammatory bowel disease. Unlike IBS, IBD causes chronic inflammation in the digestive tract and often times requires surgery to correct the issue.

There are two main types of IBD – Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. While the exact cause is unknown, here are a few facts about IBS:

• IBD affects more than 1.4 million Americans
• IBD is typically diagnosed in people between the ages of 15 and 30

People who suffer from IBD will probably experience periods of good health, where it appears they are in remission. However, just because someone isn’t experiencing symptoms doesn’t mean the disease has passed. Most people with IBD will experience flare-ups.

Symptoms

While IBS and IBD are very different, they do have similar symptoms. In both cases people will suffer from abdominal pain, diarrhea and a sudden urgency to go to the bathroom. Along with similar symptoms, they do have distinct differences.

IBS:

• Cramps
• Bloating
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Mucus in stool

IBD

• Abdominal Pain
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Weight Loss
• Fatigue
• Swollen joints
• Eye problems

Treatments

There are several natural remedies to treat IBS. Click here for 5 effective tips to heal!

While the primary goal of IBD is to fight inflammation, IBD treatment depends on a number of factors. No two cases are exactly the same. Consult a doctor about treatment options so you don’t have to suffer in silence.