What is the difference between indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), their causes, and effective treatments, Indigestion is a condition associated with upper abdominal symptoms such as bloating and heartburn after eating, while IBS affects the large intestine and causes symptoms including pain in the lower abdomen and changes in bowel movements. We will learn about the difference between the two in terms of symptoms and effective treatments.
What is indigestion
Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a feeling of discomfort in the upper abdomen. It is not considered a disease in itself, as it manifests with symptoms such as abdominal pain and a feeling of fullness after eating.
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disease affecting the stomach and intestines. It is a chronic digestive disorder affecting the large intestine and causing changes in bowel movements, leading to constipation and diarrhea.
Symptoms of Indigestion and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Indigestion symptoms include a range of upper abdominal problems, including:
- Pain or burning in the upper abdomen below the breastbone and navel.
- Feelings of bloating, fullness, and feeling full quickly.
- Frequent belching or gas.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Esophageal reflux.
- Burning pain in the chest area.
- Nausea and vomiting.
Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms include:
- Bloating and gas buildup in the abdomen.
- Rectal bleeding with blood in the stool.
- Abdominal pain accompanied by cramps that may worsen or subside after a bowel movement.
- Changes in bowel movements, such as constipation or diarrhea.
- Weight loss without dieting or any apparent cause.
- Erectile disturbances.
Causes of Indigestion
The causes of indigestion are related to dietary and behavioral factors. Common causes include:
- Eating large amounts of food quickly.
- Excessive consumption of fatty, spicy, and acidic foods.
- Excessive consumption of alcohol, coffee, and caffeinated beverages.
- Stress can affect the digestive process.
- Smoking is a risk factor that may exacerbate indigestion.
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy may cause indigestion.
- Taking certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and iron supplements, may lead to indigestion.
What are the causes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
The main cause of IBS is a functional bowel disorder resulting from psychological factors, stress, or bacterial or parasitic infections.
The Fastest Treatment for Indigestion
Indigestion can be treated quickly through lifestyle changes, such as:
- Eating small, frequent meals.
- Chewing food thoroughly before swallowing.
- Reducing caffeine and carbonated drinks.
- Walking after eating helps facilitate digestion.
- Avoid fatty and fried foods.
- Manage stress and anxiety.
Natural drinks that relieve indigestion
Some natural drinks and herbs help relieve indigestion, soothe the stomach, and improve digestion, including:
Ginger reduces stomach acid and relieves nausea.
Peppermint helps relieve indigestion symptoms such as nausea and bloating.
Chamomile is known for its stomach-soothing properties and helps reduce cramps.
Methods for treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Treatment for IBS focuses on lifestyle modifications and improving diet:
- Eat soluble fiber, which is found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to regulate bowel movements.
- Avoid irritating foods that may exacerbate IBS symptoms, such as spicy and fried foods.
- Reduces stress and anxiety and changes your way of thinking.
- Drink plenty of water to improve digestion.
- Drink herbs to soothe the colon and expel gas, such as mint, cinnamon, and ginger.
Diagnosing Indigestion and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
A doctor diagnoses indigestion by assessing symptoms and a physical examination. He or she may order additional tests, such as blood tests and stool tests to detect Helicobacter pylori infection, or an endoscopy to rule out ulcers or inflammation.
A doctor diagnoses irritable bowel syndrome by exclusion. Doctors do not order tests to diagnose IBS, but they may order tests to rule out other conditions. Diagnosis focuses on bowel movements, based on the physical examination and symptoms.
What is the best treatment for IBS
There is no best treatment for IBS, as treatment for IBS depends on the type of symptoms associated with it. The doctor prescribes the following medications to relieve symptoms:
- Antispasmodics such as mebeverine to relieve pain.
- Antidiarrheals such as loperamide.
- Anticonstipations such as lupirusone.
- Tricyclic antidepressants.
- Antibiotics to alter intestinal bacteria, including rifaximin.
Soothing Drinks for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
There are drinks and herbs that soothe colon irritation, including natural herbs such as mint, fennel, chamomile, and anise. These help calm the digestive system and improve bowel movements.
Water is important for overall hydration and facilitates the breakdown, absorption, and movement of food through the intestines. It also keeps stool moist to facilitate defecation.
Summary of the Difference Between Indigestion and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The main difference between them is that indigestion is associated with upper abdominal symptoms such as bloating and heartburn after eating, while indigestion is a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). There is significant overlap between the two conditions.
IBS, on the other hand, affects the large intestine and causes symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements, and gas.