Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): What’s The Difference?

Digestive disorders can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) being two of the most commonly discussed conditions. Despite having some similar symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating and changes in bowel habits, IBS and IBD are distinct entities with different causes, diagnostic approaches and treatment strategies.

Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by a problem with how the gut works. Several factors can contribute to its development, including abnormal intestinal muscle contractions, nervous system issues, inflammation in the intestines, severe infections and changes in gut bacteria.

Understanding Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a group of chronic inflammatory conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract. There are two primary types: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus and often involves the deeper layers of the bowel wall. Ulcerative colitis, on the other hand, is limited to the colon and rectum, affecting only the innermost lining of the colon.

IBD is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This leads to visible damage and chronic inflammation in the digestive system.

Prevalence of IBS and IBD in Singapore

While IBS can affect people of any age, it most commonly develops in individuals between 20 and 30. In Singapore, it is a very common condition, affecting an estimated 10% of the population.

Although IBD is less common than IBS, it has become increasingly prevalent in Asia over the last decade. There are an estimated 2,000 IBD patients in Singapore today.

If you are experiencing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating or changes in bowel habits and are unsure whether it is IBS or IBD, we encourage you to consult us for an accurate diagnosis. A proper diagnosis is essential for ensuring you receive the correct treatment and ongoing monitoring. We provide personalised care for IBS, IBD and other digestive conditions to help patients find relief and effectively manage their health. Contact us today to book a consultation.

IBS and IBD Diagnosis and Treatment

Our Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist in Singapore, Dr Kieron Lim, highlights the importance of correctly identifying whether a patient is suffering from IBS or IBD, as misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective or even harmful treatment.

“While IBS is a functional disorder requiring symptom-focused management, IBD is a chronic inflammatory condition that may need immunosuppressive or biologic therapy. A personalised and accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the right approach.” – Dr Kieron Lim

Treatment is customised for each patient—from dietary guidance and stress management for IBS, to anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating therapies for IBD. Dr Lim also prioritises patient education to empower individuals in managing chronic gut conditions effectively.