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Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are medical conditions that primarily affect the digestive tract. The main difference between IBS and Crohn's is that the latter causes chronic inflammation and swelling in the intestines, while the former is a blanket term for many digestive symptoms. While the conditions are diagnosed separately, some Crohn's disease symptoms and irritable bowel disease symptoms are similar. (1)
Common symptoms of both conditions include diarrhea, stomach pain, gas, bloating, and constipation. Flare-ups or "attacks" sometimes occur after eating or when an individual is under emotional stress, and they can also seemingly appear "out of the blue." People with Crohn's or IBS may experience appetite loss, weight loss, and mucus in the stool. (2)
Crohn's disease and irritable bowel disease can cause significant anxiety and emotional distress. Symptoms of these conditions often require immediate access to restrooms, which can cause sufferers to constantly worry about having "accidents." When in a constant state of anxiety and preoccupied with their bodily functions, a person may avoid social situations and travel, which can lead to feelings of isolation and despair. (3)
Currently, no cures for IBS or Crohn's disease exist. However, treatments are available for both conditions, including medications, dietary changes, and surgical procedures, to help patients manage symptoms.
WEDNESDAY, March 18, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- An experimental drug may quickly quash symptoms of the digestive disorder Crohn's disease -- at least for the short term, an early clinical trial finds. The study, of more than 150 adults with Crohn's, found that just two weeks of treatment sent... Read More
WEDNESDAY, March 18, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- A lag in growth could be a sign that a child might suffer from undiagnosed inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), especially Crohn's disease, one pediatric doctor says. "Growth charts are one of the most important things we look at with children because sometimes... Read More
TUESDAY, March 10, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- Race may play a role in outcomes for children and teens with Crohn's disease, with black patients faring worse than whites, a new study suggests. "We found racial inequalities exist among children and adolescents with Crohn's disease, likely due to a combination of... Read More
What Are Crohnâs Disease & Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are medical conditions that primarily affect the digestive tract... Read More
What Are Crohnâs Disease & Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are medical conditions that primarily affect the digestive tract... Read More
Medical experts don't fully understand the exact cause of Crohn's disease, but they think certain foods and stress may worsen or aggravate symptoms.
Crohn's disease sometimes runs in families, so genetics may be a factor in developing the condition. Individuals who smoke or take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) may be at higher risk for developing Crohn's, and some scientists believe an overactive immune response might be responsible for causing uncomfortable symptoms in the digestive tract. (4)
The exact cause of IBS isn't completely understood. Some medical professionals believe it may be linked to miscommunication between the gut and the brain (brain-gut interaction) that causes food to pass too quickly or slowly through the intestines. Experts also believe emotional triggers, such as stress, anxiety, depression, and a history of childhood trauma, may trigger IBS symptoms and flare-ups.
Other possible causes of IBS include digestive tract infections, bacteria overgrowth in the intestines, and food sensitivities. Some people tend to have more intense symptoms during their menstrual periods, so hormones may play a role. (5)
Diagnostic methods to diagnose Crohn's disease include physical examinations, blood tests, and diagnostic tests. Once a diagnosis is made, the next step is determining the best Crohn's treatment options to help patients manage their symptoms. (6) Tests may include:
Endoscopies are imaging tests used to diagnose Crohn's disease. When a physician suspects a patient has Crohn's, they may order:
Currently, no specific tests are available to diagnose IBS or irritable bowel disease. However, many physicians base their suspected diagnosis on certain criteria. Symptoms, such as diarrhea, gas, and stomach pain, are present in a wide range of medical conditions. When IBS is suspected, a physician first conducts tests to rule out other possible diseases or conditions. (7)
Once other potential conditions are ruled out, a diagnosis is usually based on the following sets of criteria:
IBS-type criteria refers to the specific types of symptoms an individual experiences. For example, one person may only have flare-ups that cause diarrhea, while another may report alternating symptoms of diarrhea and constipation. The four types of IBS are:
The Rome Foundation is a nonprofit agency that studies data to help diagnose gastrointestinal disorders. The Foundation's criteria for IBS include:
Once a physician makes an accurate diagnosis, they can move forward with Crohn's disease treatment and IBS treatment options to help patients ease their symptoms and manage flare-ups.
Taking prescribed medications and following physician-recommended diet plans can help individuals cope with physical symptoms of Crohn's disease and IBS. While anxiety and stress don't directly cause Crohn's or IBS, research has shown that individuals with these conditions may be at higher risk of developing anxiety and depression.
Plus, the fear of having a public flare-up and the constant awareness of symptoms can contribute to anxious feelings, creating what can feel like a never-ending cycle of anxiety and gastrointestinal symptoms. Working with a mental health counselor to manage the anxiety that often accompanies Crohn's disease and IBS and practicing self-care are also helpful ways to cope.
While Crohn's disease and IBS cause physical symptoms, the nature of the symptoms can also affect a person's emotional health. (8) Worrying about when a potential "accident" may occur can prevent individuals from fully living their lives without fear or anxiety.
Friends and family members of people with Crohn's disease or IBS can support them by having patience if they cancel plans due to flare-ups and by suggesting calming activities, such as taking outdoor walks versus going out to eat. Taking time to learn about the emotional aspects of these conditions can also help people gain a better understanding of what their loved ones may be experiencing.
