Difference between IBS and IBD - An Ayurvedic approach

Gastrointestinal and abdominal pains are very stimulating and overwhelming.  IBS and IBD are commonly interlinked and interchanged, often confused with the symptoms and causes. IBS stands for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and IBD stands for Irritable Bowel Disease. Both can be challenging and complicated depending on the severity and the physical condition of the patient. Some may encounter this at an early stage, whereas others find it once it becomes prevalent, accompanied by noticeable symptoms.

IBD and IBS can be confusing, but understanding these two can be very helpful in deciding which treatment and diagnosis affects you the best. IBD is a disease in itself, which is accompanied by prevalent visible symptoms. IBS is a functional disorder of the intestinal malfunctions, which is comparatively less severe when compared to IBD. Let's look deep into the differentiation of IBS and IBD.

IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease)

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the two main conditions of IBD, causing intestinal ulcers and chronic inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, often involving swelling, pain, and reduced function. IBD is more severe and depends on factors like immunological disorders, environmental disorders, and genetic predisposition are possible indicators. The exact cause remains unknown, but it can increase cancer risk.

Symptoms of IBD

• The patient may feel the frequent urge to defecate.
• Irregular stools like solid, watery, or loose.
• Appearance of bloody stools.
• Severe pain with cramp in the abdominal section.
• One who is suffering will always feel lethargic, fatigued, lacking in activeness,
• Remission intervals occurred during flares, indicating the active phase of the disease.
• If timely treatment is not received, complications could include malnourishment, digestion problems leading to intestinal blockage, and an increased risk of cancer.

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

IBS is a syndrome or functional disorder leading to intestinal motility and sensitivity, but does not result in inflammation. It is predicted that changes in gut microbiota, stress, food intolerance, and disruption of the gut-brain axis will occur.

Symptoms of IBS

• Abdominal pains and the sensation of some problems in the intestines.
• Presence of mucus and gas in stools.
• Frequent occurrence of diarrhea or constipation or both, in medical terms, is expressed as IBS-D, IBS-C, and IBS-M.
• There is a prevalent presence of blood in stools, also there will be no effect on significant weight loss as it will not affect the physical health.
• IBS is milder when compared to IBD, it is said so as there is no risk of Cancer.
• Psychological conditions of stress and anxiety can worsen the situation.

Ayurvedic Treatment for IBD and IBS

Both IBS and IBD are related to abdominal diseases, but gradually affect the quality of life. Ayurveda treatment can vary and depend on the physical constitution of the patient entirely. For IBS and IBD dietary changes, natural remedies, from herbs, lifestyle, nourishment activities, and exercise can help reduce the symptoms of IBS and IBD significantly reduced and the normal digestive function can be restored easily.

IBD

As mentioned earlier, IBD is associated with inflammation, intestinal ulcers, along with pain. It can be reduced through Ayurveda therapies such as:

• Langhana is a detoxification process for the digestive system that is followed by intermittent fasting.
• The gut health of the intestines can be increased using cool herbs such as Picha Vasti, Takra Basti, and Rasayana.
• Herbs can be used to enhance digestion through the procedure of Deepana & Pachana.
• Home Remedies like buttermilk added with spices, cumin-infused lentils, also it is necessary to avoid heavy or oily foods.
• Lifestyle should also be increased with meditation, Pranayama, and Yoga.

IBS

In the ayurvedic perspective for IBS focuses mainly on the restoration of Agni and balancing Doshas through dietary modifications, herbal remedies, and Panchakarma therapies (Vasti, Virechana). Psychological support shall also be attained for stress management.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both IBS and IBD are often confused and self-doubted among individuals. Rasayana offers the best holistic approach, focusing on the balance of Vata Dosha, improving gut health, and intestinal functions. For those seeking Ayurveda treatment centres in Kochi or the best Ayurveda hospital in Ernakulam, Rasayana offers the best Panchakarma therapies, Takra Basti, Langhana, and Picha Vasti can be provided. Rasayana can be an effective choice for managing both IBS and IBD sustainably.