Gastroparesis vs IBS: Expert Explains Key Differences, Symptoms And Treatments

Digestive disorders are among the most common health complaints, but not all stomach issues have the same cause. Bloating, abdominal discomfort, and irregular bowel movements are often dismissed as minor problems. However, persistent symptoms may signal underlying conditions such as Gastroparesis or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Although both can disrupt daily life, their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly.

What is Gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is a condition where the stomach muscles are weak and cannot efficiently move food into the small intestine. “This delayed emptying can cause nausea, vomiting, bloating, early fullness, and unexplained weight loss,” says Dr Kandarp Nath Saxena, Consultant - Gastrointestinal Science, Manipal Hospital, Jaipur. The condition is often linked to diabetes, nerve injuries, or medications that reduce stomach motility.

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

IBS is a group of symptoms affecting the intestines. Unlike gastroparesis, it does not weaken stomach muscles but causes hypersensitivity and irregular bowel function. “Patients with IBS experience abdominal cramping, bloating, gas, and alternating diarrhoea or constipation,” explains Dr Saxena. Stress and dietary factors can worsen symptoms, and while it is chronic, it can be managed effectively with lifestyle adjustments.

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Key Differences Between Gastroparesis and IBS

• Origin: Gastroparesis affects stomach emptying, while IBS impacts the large intestine.
• Symptoms: Gastroparesis presents with nausea, vomiting, and early satiety, whereas IBS is marked by bowel irregularities and abdominal cramping.
• Causes: Gastroparesis is due to nerve or muscle dysfunction; IBS is functional and often triggered by stress or gut hypersensitivity.
• Risk Factors: IBS is more common in young adults and may worsen with anxiety or stress, while gastroparesis is linked to diabetes, thyroid issues, viral infections, and previous stomach surgeries.

Gastroparesis and IBS Treatment Options

For IBS, management often begins with lifestyle changes such as stress reduction, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. In severe cases, medications and psychological therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy can provide relief.

Gastroparesis treatment focuses on symptom management and improving stomach emptying. Dietary modifications, including low-fat and low-fibre meals or liquid diets, can help. “Medications, acupuncture, and biofeedback may also provide relief,” says Dr Saxena. Severe cases may require surgical interventions like Gastric Electrical Stimulation, Feeding Tubes, or Parenteral Nutrition.

Gastroparesis and IBS: Early Diagnosis

Because gastroparesis and IBS share symptoms like bloating and abdominal discomfort, patients often confuse the two. “Self-diagnosis can delay proper treatment,” warns Dr Saxena. A gastroenterologist can distinguish between these conditions using medical history, diagnostic tests, and targeted therapy. Timely intervention improves quality of life and minimises pain.

Both conditions highlight the importance of consulting a specialist rather than relying on self-diagnosis, as similar symptoms may also indicate other gastrointestinal disorders.

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