The digestive system is extremely complex and vast and does not include the stomach alone. It has several main components, like the gastrointestinal tract, which runs from the mouth, pharynx, and oesophagus to the stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus, and also accessory organs like the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. With such intricacy, it is no surprise that digestive diseases are as varied and, sometimes, easily confused. IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), and IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) may share common symptoms, but they are distinct and separate medical conditions.
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IBS, GERD, And IBD: What Are The Differences?
Discussing each condition in detail – IBS, GERD, and IBD – Dr Mahadevan, Senior Consultant – Gastroenterology, Gleneagles Hospital, Chennai, explains:
- IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a functional disorder, meaning the structure of the bowel is normal but its function is disturbed. It affects the colon and presents with symptoms of bloating, gas, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, or constipation without any apparent damage to the intestines.
- GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is of the oesophagus, whereby stomach acid frequently flows back, causing heartburn, chest discomfort, and regurgitation.
- IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) is an autoimmune, inflammatory condition that primarily includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. It causes chronic inflammation and evident damage to the intestinal lining, potentially anywhere from the mouth to the rectum, and may result in bleeding, weight loss, or heavy diarrhoea.
To differentiate between the conditions, it is crucial to identify each disorder’s specific symptoms and characteristics.
While IBS leads to alternating diarrhoea and constipation, relieved by defecation, GERD is characterised by a burning sensation behind the chest (heartburn), which worsens after meals or when lying down. On the other hand, persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, blood in stools, weight loss, and fatigue are key indicators of IBD.
To accurately diagnose the conditions, a combination of history, lab tests, endoscopy/colonoscopy, and imaging is required.
Understanding Overlapping Triggers For IBS, GERD, And IBD
Stress, irregular eating habits, poor sleep, processed foods, and certain medications (like NSAIDs) can aggravate symptoms across IBS, GERD, and IBD. Therefore, stress management, dietary modifications, and lifestyle balance are crucial for all three.
Also Read: Should People With IBS Have Fermented Foods? A Gastroenterologist's Insight
How To Manage IBS, GERD, And IBD
It is easy to confuse IBS, GERD, and IBD with each other. According to Dr Mahadevan, misdiagnosis occurs because symptoms like abdominal pain and altered bowel habits can be common to all three.
“Treating IBS when the patient actually has IBD can delay proper care and lead to complications like intestinal damage. Similarly, GERD treated as a cardiac issue or vice versa can pose health risks. Hence, thorough evaluation is essential,” notes Dr Mahadevan.
Depending on the condition you’re diagnosed with, here are some management tips:
- IBS: Primarily managed through diet (low FODMAP), stress reduction, and symptom-specific medications.
- GERD: Treated with acid suppression (PPIs) and lifestyle changes like weight loss and dietary adjustments.
- IBD: Requires immunosuppressants, biologics, dietary support, and regular monitoring due to its chronic inflammatory nature.
Conclusion
While IBS, GERD, and IBD share some of the same symptoms, they are different diseases and must be treated separately. Misdiagnosis with one for another might lead to ineffective therapy and possible complications. This is why knowing the specific signs, causes, and triggers of each is crucial for early intervention. With appropriate medical evaluation, life-style modification, and certain therapies, individuals can effectively control their gastrointestinal condition and improve their quality of life.