Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the stomach and intestines. People with IBS often have symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel movements. These can include diarrhea, constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition, meaning it lasts for a long time and typically requires ongoing management. IBS and ulcerative colitis may be confused or mixed up with each other. Because they are both chronic conditions affecting the digestive tract, there is a lot of overlap in how they are diagnosed and treated! However, the diagnostic processes for these conditions are distinct. IBS is typically diagnosed based on symptoms and the exclusion of other conditions, often with normal test results. UC, on the other hand, is diagnosed through clinical evaluation, colonoscopy, and biopsy, with visible inflammation and ulceration in the colon. Here is a guide to the two conditions, and what you need to know about both.
What is IBS?
Doctors do not know the exact cause of IBS. The walls of the intestines are lined with muscles that contract to move food through your digestive system. If these contractions are too strong and last too long, they can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea. On the other hand, weak contractions can slow down food passage, leading to hard, dry stools. Problems with the nerves in your digestive system may make you more sensitive, causing discomfort or pain. This could be due to poor communication between the brain and the gut.
IBS can sometimes develop after a severe infection, such as gastroenteritis. It might also be because of an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines. People who experienced stressful events, especially in childhood, are more likely to develop IBS. The microbes in your intestines, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, play a crucial role in your digestive health. Research shows that people with IBS may have different gut microbes than those without the condition.
Common Symptoms of IBS
Symptoms of IBS can vary but often include:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Bloating
- Changes in bowel movements
- Mucus in the stool
- Sensation of incomplete evacuation
Some symptoms, like unexplained weight loss, rectal bleeding, or severe pain, could mean a more serious condition like colon cancer.
IBS vs. Ulcerative Colitis
While IBS and ulcerative colitis share some similarities, they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes chronic inflammation in the colon. It is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the tissues in the colon, leading to ulcers and inflammation. Unlike IBS, ulcerative colitis can cause long-term damage to the colon and increase the risk of colon cancer.
Similarities
Both conditions can cause abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea. They are also both chronic conditions, meaning they last for a long time and require ongoing management. IBS and UC can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. Stress and certain foods can worsen symptoms in both IBS and UC.
Differences
The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of factors like muscle contractions, nervous system issues, and gut microbes. Ulcerative colitis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that leads to inflammation in the colon. IBS does not cause lasting physical damage to the intestines. UC on the other hand can lead to permanent damage over time. People with UC have an increased risk of developing colon cancer, while those with IBS do not. IBS is usually managed with dietary changes, stress management, and sometimes medication. UC often takes more intense treatment, like anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants, and surgery. People with UC may have rectal bleeding, blood in their stool, and a frequent need for bowel movements. These symptoms are not common in IBS.
Managing IBS and Ulcerative Colitis
IBS management focuses on relieving symptoms. You need to identify and avoid foods that trigger symptoms. Common triggers include fatty foods, dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol. Stress can make IBS symptoms worse! Find ways to manage your stress, such as through exercise, mindfulness, or therapy. Depending on the symptoms, a doctor may prescribe medications to relieve pain or reduce diarrhea or constipation.
Managing UC takes a more aggressive approach. Anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologics are commonly used to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. Like IBS, dietary changes can help manage symptoms. People with UC may also need to avoid foods that irritate the inflamed colon. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged parts of the colon.
IBS and UC are both chronic conditions that affect the digestive tract, but they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. While IBS doesn’t cause physical damage to the intestines, UC can lead to serious complications, including an increased risk of colon cancer. Understanding the differences between these conditions is important for effective management! We hope this guide helps. Be sure to stop by PatientsLikeMe for more information.