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IBS, GERD, and IBD are three gastrointestinal disorders that are commonly mistaken for one another. Here's how you can differentiate between them and how you can effectively manage them.

Discussing each condition in detail – IBS, GERD, and IBD – , explains:

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To differentiate between the conditions, it is crucial to identify each disorder’s specific symptoms and characteristics.

While IBS leads to alternating diarrhoea and constipation, relieved by defecation, GERD is characterised by a burning sensation behind the chest (heartburn), which worsens after meals or when lying down. On the other hand, persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, blood in stools, weight loss, and fatigue are key indicators of IBD.

To accurately diagnose the conditions, a combination of history, lab tests, endoscopy/colonoscopy, and imaging is required.

Stress, irregular eating habits, poor sleep, processed foods, and certain medications (like NSAIDs) can aggravate symptoms across IBS, GERD, and IBD. Therefore, stress management, dietary modifications, and lifestyle balance are crucial for all three.

It is easy to confuse IBS, GERD, and IBD with each other. According to Dr Mahadevan, misdiagnosis occurs because symptoms like abdominal pain and altered bowel habits can be common to all three.

“Treating IBS when the patient actually has IBD can delay proper care and lead to complications like intestinal damage. Similarly, GERD treated as a cardiac issue or vice versa can pose health risks. Hence, thorough evaluation is essential,” notes Dr Mahadevan.

Depending on the condition you’re diagnosed with, here are some management tips:

• IBD: Requires immunosuppressants, biologics, dietary support, and regular monitoring due to its chronic inflammatory nature.

While IBS, GERD, and IBD share some of the same symptoms, they are different diseases and must be treated separately. Misdiagnosis with one for another might lead to ineffective therapy and possible complications. This is why knowing the specific signs, causes, and triggers of each is crucial for early intervention. With appropriate medical evaluation, life-style modification, and certain therapies, individuals can effectively control their gastrointestinal condition and improve their quality of life.