Basic Tummy Trouble or IBS: How to Tell the Difference

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that affects anywhere between 25-45 million Americans, including children. But just because you have tummy troubles, that doesn’t mean IBS is to blame. 

Board Certified Gastroenterologist Jack Husney, MD, located in Brooklyn, New York, has extensive experience in diagnosing digestive disorders. Here, he explains the difference between a sensitive stomach and IBS.  

Understanding a sensitive stomach

Just about everyone has an upset stomach at some point in their lives. These symptoms often include: 

• Gas or bloating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Heartburn, indigestion, or acid reflux

But, when these symptoms occur frequently, you might have a sensitive stomach. In most cases, these issues arise because of food sensitivities to eating spicy or fried food, dairy, or consuming alcohol. You can also have stomach issues because of certain situations. 

One of the main differences between having a sensitive stomach and IBS is pain. That’s because irritable bowel syndrome interferes with your colon.

The symptoms of IBS

Your colon is continually working to process and remove waste from your body as it passes through your large intestine. Your colon does this by reabsorbing electrolytes and water while turning digested food into stools so it can leave your body. 

A common symptom of IBS is abdominal pain because your colon doesn’t function properly. Sometimes, you might also notice moderate pain relief following a bowel movement. IBS also changes the frequency or form of your bowel movements. 

Additional symptoms of IBS include:

• Cramping and pain
• Bloating and gas
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Alternating between diarrhea and constipation
• Mucus in your stools
• Food intolerance

IBS can also cause fatigue and difficulty sleeping, as well as emotional changes like anxiety and depression. When you have IBS, your symptoms can appear unpredictably and impact your quality of life. They can also be more severe for women who are pregnant or menstruating.

Living with digestive disorders

Several bowel-related conditions have similar symptoms. The best way to determine if you have a digestive issue is by working with an experienced professional like Dr. Husney, especially if you experience significant changes in your digestion or bowel habits.

To reach an accurate diagnosis, Dr. Husney starts by performing a comprehensive physical exam and reviewing your symptoms. To rule out other conditions, he may also recommend a minimally invasive exam, such as a colonoscopy. 

There isn’t a cure for a sensitive stomach or chronic condition like IBS, but Dr. Husney offers several therapies to help manage your condition. One of the first steps is learning to identify food triggers that aggravate your symptoms and learning stress management techniques. We can also provide medications to help control problems like diarrhea, bloating, and cramps.

To learn more about IBS and basic tummy troubles, set up a consultation with Dr. Husney. Call the office or request an appointment using the online scheduling tool.