James Hakert, M.D. reviewing patient's chart

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects your large intestine (colon), and is caused by changes in how the GI tract works. People with a functional GI disorder have frequent symptoms, but the GI tract does not become damaged. IBS is not a disease; rather it is a group of symptoms that occur together.

What Causes IBS in Dallas TX?

The exact cause of IBS is not known. Gastrointestinal health experts in Dallas TX believe that there is a correlation between faulty communication between the brain and the GI tract that leads to the symptoms IBS presents. This miscommunication causes abnormal muscle contractions in the bowel, which can speed up or slow down the passage of a stool.

What Are the Symptoms of IBS?

  • Abdominal Pain
  • Bloating
  • Constipation
  • Cramping
  • Diarrhea
  • Gas
Dr. James Hakert will need to do a physical exam, look at a patient’s medical history and possibly conduct a few other tests or procedures (e.g. colonoscopy) when diagnosing someone who is presenting symptoms of having IBS.

How is IBS Treated?

Treatment for IBS will depend on the types of symptoms you have and their severity. Since there is not a universal treatment for IBS, it is important for IBS patients to work closely with their Dallas Gastroenterologist, so that a treatment plan can be created that will meet the needs of the patient. Treatment plans range from using medications to reduce the symptoms of IBS to making changes in one’s lifestyle, diet and stress.




James Hakert, M.D.
8220 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 710 Dallas, TX 75231
Phone: (214) 368-6707
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