Overview
IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a functional disorder — real symptoms without visible damage. IBD (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis) is inflammatory with bleeding and weight loss.
Symptoms to watch for
- Recurrent abdominal pain related to defecation
- Change in stool frequency or form
- IBS-D (diarrhea), IBS-C (constipation), IBS-M (mixed)
- Bloating
What else could this be?
- Crohn's/UC
- Celiac
- Microscopic colitis
- Colon cancer
- SIBO
How it's diagnosed
Rome IV criteria. Basic labs, celiac screen, calprotectin (elevated in IBD), and colonoscopy if red flags.
Treatment
Low-FODMAP diet (short-term), fiber for IBS-C, loperamide for IBS-D, rifaximin, linaclotide, or lubiprostone. Peppermint oil, cognitive behavioral therapy, gut-directed hypnotherapy.
When to book a visit
Book for evaluation and treatment.
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