Key Differences Between Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Colon Cancer Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic disorder of the large intestine. It is characterized by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, diarrhea, constipation or both. These symptoms tend to come and go in episodes. IBS is considered a functional gastrointestinal disorder. This means that while symptoms are present, there are no visible structural or biochemical abnormalities in the GI tract.

The exact causes of IBS are unknown but it is believed to involve a multitude of factors like genetics, stress, gut microbiome imbalance, food intolerances, etc. IBS is not caused by any infection, inflammation or damage to the intestines. It also does not increase cancer risk or lead to serious bowel diseases.

IBS Symptoms

The most common IBS symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Bloating and feelings of abdominal fullness
• Excess gas
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Alternating diarrhea and constipation
• Mucus in stool
• Urgency to have a bowel movement
• Incomplete bowel movement sensation
• Food intolerances
• Fatigue

These symptoms tend to come and go over time in episodes that may last for days to months. They can range from mild to quite severe. Triggers like stress, foods, hormonal changes can set off or worsen symptoms.

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer or colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum. It begins as small non-cancerous clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some of these polyps may turn into cancer.

Colon cancer is often driven by modifiable lifestyle factors like diet, weight, lack of exercise, smoking, heavy alcohol use. Age and family history also play a role. If not detected and treated early, colon cancer can spread to other organs.

Colon Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms of colon cancer may include:

• Persistent change in bowel habits like diarrhea or constipation
• Blood in stool
• Abdominal pain, cramps, bloating
• Weakness and fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Anemia
• Nausea and vomiting

However, precancerous polyps and early colon cancer dont always cause symptoms. Thats why regular screening through colonoscopies and other tests allows for detection and removal of polyps before they become cancerous.

Key Differences Between IBS and Colon Cancer

While IBS and colon cancer may have some overlapping symptoms, there are key differences:

Age of Onset

IBS can start at any age but most commonly develops before age 50. Colon cancer risk increases with age, with most cases occurring after age 50.

Persistent Symptoms

IBS causes symptoms that fluctuate in severity and come and go over time. Colon cancer symptoms tend to be more persistent.

Blood in Stool

There is no blood in stool with IBS. Persistent blood in stool or rectal bleeding must be evaluated for colon cancer.

Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss does not occur with IBS. It can be a sign of colon cancer.

Bowel Habits

IBS does not lead to a persistent change in bowel habits. A lasting change like persistent diarrhea or constipation may indicate colon cancer.

Family History

IBS does not have any genetic link. Colon cancer risk is higher if you have a first-degree relative who had it.

Anemia

IBS does not cause anemia. Iron deficiency anemia can occur with colon cancer.

Progression

IBS symptoms tend to plateau over time. Colon cancer gets progressively worse if untreated.

Diagnostic Tests

IBS is diagnosed based on symptoms, medical history and ruling out other conditions. Colon cancer requires positive findings on tests like colonoscopy biopsy.

When to See a Doctor

See your doctor if you experience any persistent colon cancer red flag symptoms like:

• Bleeding from rectum
• Blood in or on stool
• Persistent diarrhea or constipation
• Persistent abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Iron deficiency anemia

These need prompt diagnostic testing. Catching colon cancer early greatly improves treatment success.

Also see your doctor if you have severe orpersistent IBS symptoms. You may need treatment or dietary changes for symptom relief.

Diagnosis

IBS Diagnosis

There are no specific tests that can definitively diagnose IBS. Doctors diagnose IBS based on symptoms, a detailed medical history and ruling out other possible gastrointestinal conditions like:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Celiac disease
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
• Gastrointestinal infections
• Colon cancer
• Other structural or biochemical abnormalities

Your doctor will perform a physical exam and order blood tests like a complete blood count plus a stool test for blood, bacteria and parasites. You may also need a colonoscopy and/or endoscopy.

Colon Cancer Diagnosis

If colon cancer is suspected, your doctor will order screening tests like:

• Colonoscopy Allows direct visualization of the entire colon and rectum. Suspicious polyps and tissues can be biopsied or removed.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy Checks the lower part of colon and rectum.
• CT colonography Cross-sectional CT scan images of colon and rectum.
• Double-contrast barium enema X-ray test using a barium solution and air.
• Stool DNA test Checks for DNA mutations and blood in stool.

If colon cancer is confirmed, additional imaging tests may be done to determine the extent of spread. A biopsy determines the type of cells involved.

Treatment

IBS Treatment

As there is no cure for IBS, treatment focuses on managing symptoms. This may include:

• Dietary changes like avoiding trigger foods
• Fiber supplements
• Anti-diarrheal or laxative medications
• Antispasmodics
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Relaxation techniques
• Avoiding smoking and excess alcohol
• Regular exercise

Colon Cancer Treatment

Treatment options for colon cancer include:

• Surgery To remove cancerous tumor, lymph nodes and nearby healthy tissue.
• Chemotherapy Drug treatment to kill cancer cells.
• Radiation High energy beams to destroy cancer cells.
• Targeted drug therapy Drugs that specifically targets cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy Boosts immune system to fight cancer.

One or a combination of these treatments may be used based on the stage of cancer.

Prevention

Making healthy lifestyle choices and getting regular screening tests starting at age 45 can help prevent colon cancer. Some tips include:

• Eat a high fiber diet with lots of fruits and vegetables.
• Limit red and processed meats.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
• Get regular colon cancer screening tests.

While IBS itself cannot be prevented, you can manage symptoms flare-ups by:

• Avoiding trigger foods.
• Learning stress management skills.
• Getting enough sleep and exercise.
• Taking medications as advised.

Outlook

IBS is a chronic but generally benign condition that causes intestinal discomfort and disruptions in bowel habits. It does not increase risk for serious bowel diseases like colon cancer. While symptoms can impact quality of life, IBS itself does not reduce life expectancy or lead to complications when properly diagnosed.

Colon cancer outlook is highly dependent on stage at diagnosis. When detected very early, colon cancer is highly treatable with a good prognosis. Regular screening allows for early diagnosis and prompt treatment, which provides the best hope for remission and long term survival.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.