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Chronic Pancreatitis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers expert chronic pancreatitis care combining advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans. From lifestyle guidance and enzyme therapy to procedures, his holistic approach focuses on pain relief, improved digestion, and preserving pancreatic function.
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
Heavy alcohol use
Smoking (synergistic with alcohol)
Inherited gene mutations (PRSS1, SPINK1)
Duct blockages (gallstones, scar tissue)
Metabolic disturbances (high calcium, high triglycerides)
Autoimmune pancreatitis
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent or recurrent upper abdominal pain
Unintentional weight loss
Greasy, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea)
Nausea and vomiting during flare-ups
New or worsening blood sugar problems (diabetes)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Chronic Pancreatitis and Epigastric Pain
Dr. Nguyen uses a systematic, step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your epigastric pain pattern, alcohol and tobacco use, family history of pancreatitis, and other risk factors.
Blood Tests
We check pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) and fasting blood glucose to assess inflammation and endocrine function.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan to evaluate pancreatic size, calcifications, and ductal changes.
MRI/MRCP for detailed visualization of ducts, stones, or strictures.
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for high-resolution imaging of early tissue changes.
Pancreatic Function Tests (if needed)
Fecal elastase or direct function tests (secretin stimulation) to measure exocrine enzyme output and confirm insufficiency.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for chronic pancreatitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Abstinence from alcohol and smoking to reduce pancreatic inflammation
Small, low-fat meals throughout the day to ease digestive stress
Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy to improve nutrient absorption and reduce steatorrhea
Hydration and targeted vitamin support (A, D, E, K) to address malnutrition
Connection to local support groups for counseling and lifestyle coaching
2. Medications
Stepwise pain management beginning with over-the-counter analgesics
Prescription pain relievers or celiac plexus nerve block for refractory pain
Pancreatic enzyme supplements, available by prescription or OTC
Fat-soluble vitamin supplementation to correct deficiencies
Diabetes medications or insulin therapy if blood sugar control is needed
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to remove ductal stones and place stents
Celiac nerve block for targeted pain relief
Stent placement to maintain pancreatic duct patency
Surgical interventions (e.g., partial pancreatectomy or drainage procedures) for severe or complicated cases
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's the ICD-10 code for chronic pancreatitis?
The primary code is K86.1. If you experience an acute flare on top of chronic disease, your record may also include an K85.x code.
How do I prepare for an endoscopic ultrasound?
You'll need to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure. Our team will provide detailed, step-by-step instructions.
Can diet alone fix chronic pancreatitis?
No. While small, low-fat meals and proper nutrition help, you'll often need enzyme supplements or other medical treatments as well.
Is enzyme therapy covered by insurance?
Yes—most insurance plans cover pancreatic enzyme replacement. Our staff will verify your benefits and guide you through the process.
Will I miss work after a procedure?
Many of our interventions are outpatient, allowing you to go home the same day. We'll work with your schedule to minimize downtime.
Are support groups available in Houston?
Absolutely. We can connect you with the Houston Pancreatitis Support Network and other local patient groups for ongoing help and community.
Can chronic pancreatitis be cured?
There's no cure, but with lifestyle changes, medications, and targeted treatments, most patients experience significant relief and improved quality of life.
