What is the difference between IBD and IBS?

If you've ever heard the terms IBD (irritable bowel disease) and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), you've probably wondered if they're the same thing. They're actually not, and Sunanda V. Kane, M.D., M.S.P.H., is here to explain the difference. Pick up your copy of Mayo Clinic on Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis here: mcpress.mayoclinic.org/produc...
IBD and its symptoms are caused by inflammation within the GI tract. IBS, meanwhile, can produce the exact same symptoms as IBD, but these symptoms are driven by irritability that may come from medications, stress, or another factor.
Symptoms caused by IBD and IBS can be very similar:
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
However, there is one key difference between the two: inflammation, which only shows up in IBD, causes bleeding.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make sure to track them and speak with your doctor to determine what is right for you.
To learn more, pick up your copy of Mayo Clinic on Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis: mcpress.mayoclinic.org/produc...