NSAID Enteritis is inflammation of the small intestine caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These medications can damage the protective lining of the gut when taken frequently or in high doses, leading to ulcers, bleeding and persistent inflammation. Unlike gastritis, which affects the stomach, NSAID Enteritis occurs in the small bowel.
Symptoms may develop slowly or appear suddenly. You might experience:
Several factors can contribute to NSAID Enteritis:
At GastroDoxs in Houston, our specialists combine cutting-edge diagnostics with gut-protective treatments to address NSAID Enteritis at its source. We deliver individualized, compassionate care-from medication review and endoscopic evaluation to tailored diet plans and ongoing monitoring. Don’t let small-bowel inflammation hold you back. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief and digestive wellness.
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Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
NSAID Enteritis is inflammation of the small intestine caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These medications can damage the gut’s protective lining, leading to ulcers, bleeding, and chronic inflammation when used frequently or at high doses.
Common signs include abdominal pain or cramps, gas, bloating, loose or bloody stools, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue due to slow blood loss and anemia.
Diagnosis may involve blood tests, stool studies, imaging scans, and-when necessary-small bowel endoscopy to directly visualize and assess inflammation or ulcers in the small intestine.
No. While enteric-coated formulations are designed to dissolve in the intestine rather than the stomach, NSAIDs themselves are not enteric drugs and can still injure the gut lining if taken long-term or in high doses.
Crohn’s disease is an immune-mediated inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, whereas NSAID Enteritis is direct injury to the small intestine caused by medication use, not an underlying autoimmune process.
Yes. Even common OTC NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen can damage the small intestine if taken too often, at high doses, or without appropriate gut-protective measures.
A Houston gastroenterologist can help you stop or reduce NSAID use, prescribe safer pain relief alternatives, recommend medications to protect and heal the gut lining, perform diagnostic endoscopy, and guide dietary adjustments for recovery.
You should consult a specialist if you experience persistent abdominal pain, visible or occult bleeding in stools, sudden weight loss, or symptoms that do not improve after stopping NSAIDs.
Opt for soft, bland, low-fiber foods to minimize irritation-such as cooked vegetables, white rice, bananas, applesauce, and lean proteins-and stay well hydrated.
Use NSAIDs only when necessary, at the lowest effective dose, and for the shortest duration possible. Discuss alternative pain relievers and gut-protective strategies with your doctor to reduce your risk.
