Final answer:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder where symptoms arise from changes in the GI tract's functioning, often treated with serotonin. Unlike IBS, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease, is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and can lead to serious complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is considered a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder, meaning that the symptoms are caused by changes in how the GI tract works. IBS is a chronic condition and is often treated with the neurotransmitter serotonin. This is because serotonin has a significant role in the regulation of the digestive system, as it is synthesized in neurons that enervate smooth muscle cells lining the GI tract. Also, serotonin is associated with a sense of well-being, which can be disrupted in individuals with IBS.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease, is a different condition where the immune system attacks parts of the GI tract, leading to inflammation. Crohn's disease can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever, and it can affect any part of the gastrointestina tract, including the skin, joints, and eyes. Unlike IBS, Crohn's disease can also lead to complications such as obstructions and abscesses.
Both IBS and IBD can have profound effects on a person's life but can be managed with proper treatment and care, allowing affected individuals to live full and productive lives.