IBD causes visible inflammation and damage to the gut. The two conditions can cause similar symptoms and sometimes the only way to tell the difference between them is by testing. The two major types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Some symptoms that are not typical of IBS that should raise concern for IBD or another condition are rectal bleeding, unintentional weight loss, frequently waking out of a sound sleep with abdominal pain or diarrhea, or other blood test abnormalities. IBS is usually a condition that's diagnosed early on in life (20s, 30s and 40s). If a person experiences new abdominal pain or changes in bowel habits in their 50s or 60s or older, in particular if they are associated with those other symptoms, and especially in someone who hasn't had age-appropriate colorectal screening, they should always follow up with their healthcare provider.