Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common yet often misunderstood condition. It’s estimated that 1 in 5 people will experience IBS at some stage of their lives. But, how does IBS differ from other gut disorders? Many people confuse IBS with other gut disorders, as symptoms can overlap. However, IBS has distinct characteristics that set it apart from conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), coeliac disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Understanding these differences is key to managing symptoms effectively and finding the right treatment. If you’re unsure whether you have IBS, try taking the IBS Symptom Quiz.

What is IBS?

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning it affects the way the gut functions rather than causing structural damage. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating and altered bowel habits such as diarrhoea, constipation or both. Unlike other GI disorders, IBS does not lead to inflammation, ulcers or permanent damage to the intestines. It is typically diagnosed by initially eliminating other more serious conditions (see my blog “Do I have IBS?“) via blood tests and other investigations. Then your GP may study your symptoms using the Rome IV criteria, which outline specific patterns of pain and bowel dysfunction.

IBS vs IBD

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an umbrella term for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both of which involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Unlike IBS, IBD can cause severe complications, including intestinal damage, bleeding and increased risk of colon cancer. Symptoms such as weight loss, blood in the stool and fever are common in IBD but not in IBS. While IBS can be managed through dietary changes and stress reduction, IBD often requires medical treatments such as immunosuppressants or surgery. Your GP can test for IBD via a stool sample.

IBS vs Coeliac Disease

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten sensitivity. When people with coeliac disease eat gluten, their immune system attacks the small intestine, leading to nutrient malabsorption. Symptoms of coeliac disease, such as diarrhoea, fatigue and bloating, may overlap with IBS, but coeliac disease can be confirmed through blood tests and intestinal biopsies. Unlike IBS, coeliac disease requires complete avoidance of gluten to prevent long-term damage.

IBS vs GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, chest pain and regurgitation. While GERD and IBS can coexist, they affect different parts of the digestive tract. IBS primarily involves the lower gut, whereas GERD is related to acid reflux and oesophageal irritation. Managing GERD often involves dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes and medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), whereas IBS management focuses on dietary modifications, stress management and gut-directed therapies.

Diagnosing and Managing IBS

So, how does IBS differ from other gut disorders? Well, since IBS does not cause structural damage, diagnosis is based on elimination of other more serious conditions and on symptom patterns rather than medical tests. Managing IBS often involves following a low FODMAP diet, stress reduction techniques, probiotics and sometimes medication to alleviate symptoms.

The low FODMAP diet is widely recognized as one of the most effective dietary strategies for managing IBS symptoms. Research shows that around 75% of IBS sufferers experience significant relief from bloating, abdominal pain and irregular bowel habits when following this approach. By systematically eliminating and reintroducing high FODMAP foods, this short-term diet helps identify specific triggers. In this way, you can get on and enjoy life without being constrained by your IBS symptoms. allowing for a more personalized and sustainable long-term dietary plan.

Help is at Hand

Cutting out groups of food isn’t recommended without expert guidance. Advice needs to be practical and to fit into your life, which is where an IBS dietitian trained in FODMAPs comes in! I have a wealth of experience in helping IBS sufferers. As an IBS Dietitian, I offer one-to-one advice, helping you through the phases of the low FODMAP diet. This will give you the confidence to finally manage your IBS. So, if you’d like to see if the low FODMAP diet is right for you, let’s chat. I’m based in Cardiff, but via virtual consultations I can work across the UK. Contact me for further information and to book a free initial telephone call. Usually only 3 sessions are necessary, so what are you waiting for? Give me a call today.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you are experiencing persistent digestive symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional.