What's the difference between IBS and IBD?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are easy conditions to confuse. As well as having similar names, the two have many similar symptoms – if you have one of these conditions you may have abdominal pain, cramps, constipation, and diarrhoea, as well as feeling generally unwell. But the conditions are quite distinct, with different causes and different treatments. If you’re having any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor who can give you a definite diagnosis.