There are numerous gastrointestinal disorders, some minor and some quite severe.  However, one of the most common problems seen by doctors is a disorder called Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS.  Unfortunately, because the symptoms of this problem can mimic or mirror other gastrointestinal problems, IBS can go unconfirmed.

In this article, we wanted to answer some questions about what IBS is and what makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome different.  With this information, people will be able to identify the problem easier and sooner so they can get the medical support needed to get started.

First, while Irritable Bowel Syndrome is one of the three primary problems people face with the gastrointestinal system medical researchers actually believe the intestine is not actually the issue.  Instead, what makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome different from other stomach disorders is that it actually has more to do with the individual having a very sensitive colon.  When the colon is irritated, it begins to spasms, which results in bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and pain.

Another thing that makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome different from gastrointestinal disorders is that some foods and medications that might not bother one would cause discomfort and pain with IBS.  Many people will see a medical specialist only to be misdiagnosed with Colitis or spastic colon.  As a result, the patient does not get proper treatment and the problem never goes away.

When it comes to “what makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome” different is that it can be confusing.  While some medical conditions are straightforward and relatively easy to diagnosis, this particular condition could easily be lumped into another problem and missed altogether.  This confusion only leads to the individual living with a miserable condition that with proper treatment could be managed effectively.

The following are some of the dynamics of what makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome different so if you find you are having any or all of the symptoms you can discuss them with your doctor and explain your concerns regarding IBS.

• IBS does not cause any type of inflammation
• IBS is a standalone disorder, meaning it will never lead to other complications
• The primary symptoms of IBS include bloating, pain and cramping, diarrhea and/or constipation, and excessive gas
• IBS does not affect the gastrointestinal system but actually, the bowel or colon

When compared to other like health problems, what makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome is associated with the various factors and symptoms associated.  For instance, other problems with the gastrointestinal system, as well as bowel and colon that can be mistaken for IBS include:

• Dyspepsia – What makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome different from Dyspepsia is the symptoms.  For instance, this particular health problem affects the chest and upper portion of the abdomen.  The common symptoms include gas, a sense of being full, and even a burning sensation.  Dyspepsia is most commonly caused by cancer of the stomach, and ulcer, or inflammation
• Crohn’s Disease – This is another problem that can be diagnosed instead of IBS.  With Crohn’s Disease, the gastrointestinal tract is affected, causing intestinal spasms, cramping, diarrhea, weight loss, appetite loss, and even sores.  What makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome different from Crohn’s in addition to symptoms is that with Crohn’s, there could be further and more complicated health problems develop.
• Ulcerative Colitis – IBS is often misdiagnosed as Ulcerative Colitis, which is a disease that actually affects the large intestine only.  In this case, a person would have camping, fever, and blood in diarrhea caused by ulcers or inflammation associated with the large intestine.

The bottom line is that what makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome different from other health problems involving the gastrointestinal system, bowel, and color goes back to the symptoms, the cause, and the potential for further health risks.  Again, because IBS can be overlooked or misdiagnosed, it is imperative that you be insistent in having your doctor run the appropriate tests to rule in or rule out IBS so you can get the treatment needed.

The positive light about Irritable Bowel Syndrome is that with so many people now dealing with this disorder, more and more research has been done.  As a result, the options for effective treatment have also improved, giving people many more possibilities for getting better.  Better yet is that the treatments being offered specific to IBS today does work, giving people better control over their lives.