Coeliac vs. IBS

Attribute	Coeliac	IBS
Symptoms	Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue	Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation
Cause	Autoimmune reaction to gluten	Unknown, possibly related to gut bacteria
Diagnosis	Blood tests, endoscopy, biopsy	Based on symptoms, ruling out other conditions
Treatment	Gluten-free diet	Dietary changes, stress management

Introduction

Coeliac disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) are two common gastrointestinal disorders that can cause similar symptoms but have different underlying causes. It is important to understand the distinctions between these two conditions in order to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Symptoms of Coeliac disease include diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, weight loss, and nutrient deficiencies. On the other hand, IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits. Both conditions can cause discomfort and impact quality of life.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing Coeliac disease involves blood tests to check for specific antibodies and a biopsy of the small intestine to look for damage characteristic of the disease. In contrast, IBS is typically diagnosed based on symptoms and the exclusion of other conditions through medical history and physical examination. There is no specific test for IBS, making it a diagnosis of exclusion.

Causes

The root cause of Coeliac disease is an immune reaction to gluten, which damages the lining of the small intestine and impairs nutrient absorption. In contrast, the exact cause of IBS is unknown, but factors such as abnormal gastrointestinal motility, visceral hypersensitivity, and gut-brain axis dysfunction are believed to play a role in the development of symptoms.

Treatment

The primary treatment for Coeliac disease is a strict gluten-free diet, which involves avoiding all sources of gluten to prevent symptoms and intestinal damage. In contrast, treatment for IBS focuses on managing symptoms through dietary modifications, stress reduction techniques, and medications to alleviate pain and discomfort. Some individuals with IBS may benefit from a low FODMAP diet, which restricts certain types of carbohydrates that can trigger symptoms.

Complications

If left untreated, Coeliac disease can lead to serious complications such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, and an increased risk of certain cancers. On the other hand, IBS is considered a chronic condition that can significantly impact quality of life but does not typically lead to serious complications or permanent damage to the intestines.

Prevalence

Coeliac disease is estimated to affect approximately 1% of the population worldwide, although many cases go undiagnosed. In contrast, IBS is much more common, affecting up to 10-15% of the global population. Both conditions can occur at any age but are more commonly diagnosed in adulthood.

Conclusion

While Coeliac disease and IBS share some similar symptoms, they are distinct conditions with different causes, diagnostic criteria, and treatment approaches. It is important for individuals experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause of their discomfort and receive appropriate care. By understanding the differences between Coeliac disease and IBS, individuals can better manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.