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Conditions · IBS & Abdominal Pain

IBS, Abdominal Pain & Bowel Changes in Denton, TX

Ongoing abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea or constipation deserve real answers. Dr. Amjad Awan finds the cause and builds a plan that fits your life.

Call (940) 243-0912
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Patient with abdominal pain seeking a GI specialist
  • 25+ years of GI experience
  • 4.94/5 from 1,590 patient reviews
  • 6 locations in Denton & Coppell
  • 3 hospital affiliations

Understanding Your Symptoms

When Your Gut Is Trying to Tell You Something

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition in which the gut and brain do not communicate normally, causing pain, bloating and changes in bowel habits. It does not damage the intestines, but it can greatly affect daily life.

Obscure or unexplained abdominal pain and persistent changes in bowel habits can also have other causes, so a careful evaluation is the first step.

  • Thorough evaluation of pain and bowel patterns
  • Testing to rule out IBD, celiac disease and infection
  • Personalized diet guidance, including low-FODMAP
  • Medications and gut-brain therapies when needed
Gastroenterology consultation in Denton, TX

Common Symptoms

Symptoms We Evaluate

These symptoms are common, but persistent or changing symptoms should be checked.

Talk to Our Team

Abdominal Pain

Cramping that often improves after a bowel movement.

Bloating & Gas

A swollen, uncomfortable feeling.

Diarrhea

Loose or urgent stools (IBS-D).

Constipation

Hard or infrequent stools (IBS-C).

Alternating Habits

A mix of diarrhea and constipation (IBS-M).

Red Flags

Bleeding, weight loss or night symptoms need prompt testing.

Step by Step

Finding the Cause and the Right Treatment

We rule out other conditions first, then treat the pattern you actually have.

1

Detailed History

Symptom timing, triggers, diet, medications and stress are reviewed.

2

Targeted Testing

Blood work, stool tests, celiac screening, imaging or colonoscopy as needed.

3

Treatment Plan

Diet changes, fiber, medications and stress-management strategies.

4

Follow-Up

Your plan is adjusted until symptoms are under control.

Abdominal Pain Care in Denton

Getting Relief from IBS

IBS is diagnosed based on symptom patterns after other conditions are ruled out. Doctors often use the Rome IV criteria: recurring abdominal pain at least one day a week for three months, linked to bowel movements or changes in stool.

Diet Strategies

A low-FODMAP diet, done with guidance, helps many people identify trigger foods. Soluble fiber such as psyllium may also help.

When It Is Not IBS

Rectal bleeding, weight loss, anemia, fever, symptoms that wake you at night or new symptoms after age 45 are not typical of IBS and need further evaluation.

Related Reading

Read IBS vs. IBD: Key Differences and 10 Habits for Better Gut Health.

At a Glance

  • Thorough evaluation of pain and bowel patterns
  • Testing to rule out IBD, celiac disease and infection
  • Personalized diet guidance, including low-FODMAP
  • Medications and gut-brain therapies when needed
Call (940) 243-0912

FAQ

IBS & Abdominal Pain FAQs

Have another question? Our team is happy to help.

Call (940) 243-0912

IBS does not damage the intestines or increase cancer risk, but it can significantly affect quality of life.

Common triggers include certain high-FODMAP foods, fatty meals, caffeine and alcohol, but triggers vary by person.

Stress does not cause IBS but can make symptoms worse because of the strong gut-brain connection.

Not always. A colonoscopy may be recommended if you have red-flag symptoms or are due for colon cancer screening.

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Get Answers for Ongoing Abdominal Pain

Schedule a visit with a Denton GI specialist to find the cause of your symptoms.

Call (940) 243-0912