IBD is a combination of autoimmune and microbiological disorders where your gut recognizes the colon and small intestine cells as foreign bodies, causing irritation and ulcers in the colon. With IBS, on the other hand, the colon appears perfectly normal, since it’s essentially a nerve problem. There are two types of IBS: constipation, which is more prevalent, and diarrhea. About 20 percent of people have IBS-type symptoms on a daily basis, but women are much more aware of their bodies and tend to go to health care providers seeking treatment, typically when they’re middle-aged. Men tend to put it off until retirement, when they begin focusing more on their health and wellness. You should see a doctor about digestive issues if you notice any blood in your stool; if you keep losing weight despite having a normal appetite; if you’re doing everything right, but just don’t feel well; if you have anemia; or if you have difficulty swallowing.