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Abnormal Weight Loss

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in diagnosing and treating abnormal weight loss—defined as losing over 5% of body weight within 6 to 12 months without trying. Comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatments, and minimally invasive procedures help restore health.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
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Nghia Nguyen

About the Expert

Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Digestive disorders (celiac disease, Crohn's disease)
  • Thyroid dysfunction (hyperthyroidism)
  • Chronic infections (tuberculosis)
  • Cancers of the stomach, pancreas or other organs
  • Mental health issues (depression, anxiety)
  • Malabsorption syndromes or poor nutritional intake
  • Age over 65 years
  • Family history of gastrointestinal diseases
  • Smoking

Signs and Symptoms

  • Unintended weight loss of more than 5% body weight
  • Persistent fatigue or weakness
  • Dizziness or fainting spells
  • Diarrhea or presence of blood in stool
  • Loss of muscle mass or strength
  • Evidence of nutrient deficiencies (hair thinning, brittle nails)

How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition

Dr. Nguyen begins with a full health history and physical exam. He checks your diet, stress level, and stomach issues. Tests may include:

  • Blood tests: to check anemia, thyroid levels, and more.
  • Imaging: such as ultrasound or CT scan.
  • Endoscopy: a camera exam of your digestive tract.
  • Stool tests: to assess nutrient absorption.

After the exam, he assigns a diagnosis code. The ICD-10 code for abnormal weight loss is R63.4. This code is used for medical records and insurance.

Dr. Nghia Nguyen
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for abnormal weight loss.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eating small, high-protein meals throughout the day
  • Drinking nutrient-rich shakes or using supplements
  • Working with a dietitian to create a personalized meal plan

2. Medications

  • Appetite boosters (e.g., megestrol)
  • Acid blockers or digestive enzyme supplements
  • Thyroid or hormone therapy when indicated

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Feeding tube placement via endoscopic guidance
  • Balloon dilation to open narrowed areas of the digestive tract
  • Stent placement in the esophagus or bowel when needed
Dr Nghia Nguyen

About the Author

Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered abnormal weight loss?

Losing more than 5% of your body weight over 6-12 months without trying or changing your diet and activity levels.

When should I see a doctor?

If you're losing weight rapidly, feeling weak or dizzy, or notice unexplained symptoms, call GastroDoxs for a same-day appointment.

What is the ICD-10 code for this condition?

The code is R63.4, which stands for “abnormal weight loss” and is used for medical records and insurance claims.

How long does it take to get diagnosed?

Most patients complete blood tests and imaging studies within a week. An endoscopy, if needed, is usually scheduled 7-10 days later.

Are there non-invasive tests?

Yes. We use blood work, stool tests, ultrasound or CT scans, and other imaging to identify the cause without surgery.

Will insurance cover the tests and treatments?

We accept most Houston plans. Using the R63.4 diagnosis code helps speed up claims for tests and therapies.

Can I prevent abnormal weight loss?

Regular health check-ups, balanced meals, proper nutrient intake, and stress management can help prevent unexplained weight loss.

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