Abdominal Pain

Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Symptom Review

She asks detailed questions about your pain—when it began, how long it lasts, its quality (burning, gnawing, sharp), any relation to meals, and associated symptoms like heartburn or nausea. She'll also review your medications (NSAIDs, aspirin), alcohol use, prior ulcers or reflux history, and family digestive disorders.

Physical Examination

Dr. Nguyen performs a focused abdominal exam, applying gentle pressure over the epigastric area to check for tenderness, rebound, or guarding. he may also assess for signs of gallbladder disease (Murphy's sign) and listen for bowel sounds.

Laboratory Tests

• Complete blood count (CBC) to look for infection or anemia.
• Pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) to rule out pancreatitis.
• H. pylori testing (breath, stool antigen, or serology) if ulcers are suspected.
• Liver function tests to evaluate biliary or hepatic causes.

Imaging Studies

• Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate the gallbladder, bile ducts, liver, and pancreas.
• CT scan of the abdomen if pancreatitis, masses, or vascular issues are a concern.

Endoscopic Evaluation

If peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, GERD, or non‐cardiac chest pain is suspected, Dr. Nguyen may perform an upper endoscopy (EGD). This allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum and the ability to biopsy lesions or treat bleeding ulcers.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

For refractory symptoms or atypical presentations, further tests such as 24-hour pH monitoring, gastric emptying studies, or MRI/MRCP may be ordered to pinpoint motility disorders, bile reflux, or structural abnormalities.