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Colon Cancer
Colon cancer starts as benign polyps in the large intestine and often lacks symptoms early. In Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs provides personalized screening, state-of-the-art diagnostics, expert surgical and medical therapies, and comprehensive ongoing support for optimal patient care.
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
Age 50 or older
Personal or family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer
Change in bowel habits lasting more than a few days
Persistent diarrhea or constipation
Blood in the stool or very dark stools
Abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fatigue or weakness
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Colon Cancer
Dr. Nguyen starts by learning about your health history. He will do a physical exam and ask about your symptoms.
He may suggest a colonoscopy, a test that uses a camera to look inside the colon. During the test, polyps can be removed, and if needed, tissue samples are sent for biopsy.
Imaging tests like CT or MRI scans help check if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. This helps determine the cancer stage and guides the right treatment plan.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for colon cancer.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eating more fiber from fruits and vegetables
Reducing red or processed meat
Staying active
Quitting smoking if needed
2. Medications
Chemotherapy drugs, especially for later stages
Targeted treatments based on specific genetic markers
Medicines that ease side effects and improve comfort
3. Procedures and Surgery
Colonoscopy to remove polyps before they become cancer
Laparoscopic surgery to remove tumors using small cuts
Robotic-assisted surgery for more precision during complex procedures
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
When should I start colon cancer screening?
Most people begin screening at age 45; if you have a family history of colon or rectal cancer, Dr. Nguyen may recommend starting earlier.
What are common symptoms of colon cancer in women?
Women often experience changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain or cramps, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue.
Can diet changes lower my risk of colon cancer?
Yes. A diet high in fiber from fruits and vegetables and low in red and processed meats can help reduce your risk.
What is the survival rate for colon cancer?
If detected at an early stage, the five-year survival rate can exceed 90%. Early screening and treatment lead to better outcomes.
How is stage 4 colon cancer diagnosed?
Stage 4 is confirmed when cancer has spread beyond the colon. Imaging tests like CT or MRI and biopsy results determine the extent of spread.
Does a colonoscopy hurt?
Most patients feel little to no discomfort. Sedation or anesthesia is used so you can relax or sleep through the procedure.
What treatment options are there for stage 4 colon cancer?
Dr. Nguyen may recommend chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, or surgery based on your overall health and the extent of cancer spread.
