IBS vs. IBD: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters for Your Gut Health
When your digestive system acts up, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by acronyms and confusing diagnoses. Two common culprits behind chronic digestive issues are IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) . Though they sound similar, IBS and IBD are very different conditions — with different causes, treatments, and long-term effects on your health. If you're struggling with symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation, understanding the difference between IBS and IBD is key to finding relief and managing your gut health effectively. Quick Overview: IBS vs. IBD Feature IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) Type of Condition Functional GI disorder Chronic inflammation Causes Gut-brain interaction, stress, food sensitivity Autoimmune response Affects Colon (functionally) Anywhere in the GI tract Inflammation No Yes (visible in tests) Common Types IBS-C, IBS-D, IBS-M Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis...