Differentiating between Gastritis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Introduction

• Gastritis and IBS are common gastrointestinal disorders.
• Both cause abdominal discomfort but have distinct characteristics in causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
• Professional guidance from Vinmec International General Hospital.

Definitions

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

• Affects the function of the digestive system, mainly the large intestine (colon).
• Known as spastic colon and is chronic.
• Causes include:
  • Psychological factors: anxiety, stress
  • Neurological issues: depression, insomnia
  • Poor diet, toxic or spoiled food
  • History of intestinal diseases, hormonal medication use
  • Genetic factors

Gastritis

• Damage to the stomach lining due to inflammation.
• Categories: acute and chronic (more common).
• Caused by:
  • Bacterial causes: Helicobacter pylori, Helicobacter heilmannii, other bacteria
  • Non-bacterial causes: Autoimmune diseases, NSAIDs, alcohol/tobacco use, poor dietary habits, psychological factors

Clinical Symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Chronic intestinal disorders with recurrent abdominal pain.
• Associated with bowel movements, changes in frequency, stool appearance.
• Signs include bowel habit changes, constipation/diarrhea, bloating.

Gastritis

• Pain in the epigastric region, often associated with meals.
• Symptoms: bloating, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, indigestion.
• May cause fever, gnawing stomach sensation.

Laboratory Diagnosis

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Normal blood tests.
• Fecal occult blood test, abdominal ultrasound, CT/MRI, colonoscopy, biopsy.

Gastritis

• Tests for H. pylori: blood, stool, breath tests.
• Gastroscopy, gastrointestinal X-ray with contrast.

Treatment

Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Non-pharmacological

• Diet: avoid bloating foods, gluten, FODMAPs.
• Stress reduction through meditation, music, exercise.
• Regular water intake and habits.

Pharmacological

• Constipation: fiber supplements, Sorbitol, Lactulose, Bisacodyl.
• Diarrhea: Cholestyramine, Loperamide.
• Spasms: antispasmodic medications.

Treatment of Gastritis

Non-pharmacological

• Healthy diet, regular routines, stress management, reduced NSAID use.

Pharmacological

• Gastric mucosal protection, antacids, H2 receptor blockers, proton pump inhibitors.
• H.Pylori treatment according to guidelines.

Conclusion

• Gastritis and IBS are prominent digestive disorders.
• Early detection and effective treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing complications.

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