What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Inflammatory bowel disease is an umbrella term that refers to a group of inflammatory conditions in the large and small bowels. The most common types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

What Are The Symptoms of IBD?

• Anemia
• Eye redness or pain
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Joint pain or soreness
• Skin changes
• Unintended weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Rectal bleeding

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal disorder that causes pain in the belly, gas, diarrhea, and constipation.

What Are The Symptoms of IBS?

• Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating that is typically relieved by having a bowel movement
• Excess gas
• Diarrhea or constipation (sometimes in alternating bouts)
• Mucus in the stool

Are IBD and IBS The Same?

No. IBS and IBD do have overlapping symptoms, but they do not involve the same problem with the digestive tract. The key difference between the two conditions is that IBS usually does not cause ulcers or lesions in the bowel, whereas IBD causes ulcers in the digestive tract and bowel. 

What are the Treatments for IBS Versus IBD?

Treatment for IBD includes: 

• Anti-inflammatory drugs. 
• Surgery to remove the entire colon/rectum may be necessary.

Treatment for IBS includes:

• Dietary changes
• Medications - (e.g. Lotronex, Rifaximin and Amitiza)
• OTC drugs such as aspirin, antiemetics, laxatives, and antidepressants

Is there a cure for IBS or IBD?

No, however treatment can greatly reduce symptoms and make day-to-day life much easier. To find the best course of action for your symptoms, discuss a treatment plan with your gastroenterologist.