Despite the similar abbreviations and some shared symptoms, it’s crucial to understand that these two conditions, IBS and IBD, are distinct. By delving into the causes, symptoms, and treatments for each, you can empower yourself with knowledge and better manage your health. Plus, we’ll explore how you can treat your IBS, IBD, and other digestive health disorders with QuickMD experts.
What is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common conditions seen by medical providers. It can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal cramping, pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements.
These changes can manifest as diarrhea (IBS-D), constipation (IBS-C), or a mix of both (IBS-M). It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and frequency from person to person.
The American College of Gastroenterology offers a 1-minute online screening test to help you and your doctor determine if you might have IBS.
What causes IBS?
IBS is not well understood, but we do know that many different factors, such as eating certain foods, a high stress level, or a family history of IBS, can sometimes explain symptoms. During endoscopies, the stomach and intestines appear normal. IBS does not lead to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and it does not mean you are more likely to get colon cancer.
How is IBS treated?
IBS treatment focuses on managing symptoms through:
- Dietary Changes: Avoiding trigger foods.
- Probiotics: To support gut health.
- Stress Management: Techniques to reduce stress.
- Medications: For constipation, diarrhea, or cramping relief.
What is IBD?
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a general term for any condition that causes swelling in the intestines. The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
What are the types of IBD?
There are two main types of IBD: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC).
Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the GI (gastrointestinal) tract, and when the GI tract becomes inflamed, patients may have abdominal cramps, diarrhea, constipation, or rectal bleeding.
In ulcerative colitis, the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum is swollen and ulcerated (sores). Common symptoms include bloody diarrhea or stool and abdominal pain.
How is IBD treated?
IBD treatment aims to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms:
- Dietary Changes: Tailored to ease symptoms.
- Medications: Various medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
- Surgery: In some cases, to repair or remove affected parts of the intestine (for Crohn’s) or remove the colon (for UC).
Get Professional Help with QuickMD
Managing IBS or IBD can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. QuickMD offers telemedicine services, a convenient and safe way to consult with experienced doctors from the comfort of your home.
With QuickMD, you can schedule an appointment, discuss your symptoms and concerns with a doctor via video call, and receive personalized treatment plans, expert advice, and prescriptions for medications if needed. Start your journey to better digestive health today with QuickMD.
Don’t let your digestive health concerns linger. With QuickMD, scheduling your telemedicine appointment is a breeze. Take the first step towards understanding and managing your condition with ease and convenience. Visit QuickMD today and regain control of your digestive health.
