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Crohn's Disease
At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers comprehensive Crohn's disease care. From thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plans to diet guidance, medication management, and minimally invasive procedures, our team helps ease symptoms and improve quality of life.
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.
What Is Crohn's Disease?
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the digestive tract that can affect any part from the mouth to the anus. It causes swelling, irritation, and ulcers, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. (Medical code: K50.)
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Family history of Crohn's disease or other inflammatory bowel diseases
Cigarette smoking
An overactive immune response attacking the gastrointestinal tract
Dietary factors, imbalances in gut bacteria, and other environmental triggers
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent or crampy abdominal pain
Frequent, urgent diarrhea
Blood or mucus in the stool
Fever and pronounced fatigue
Unintentional weight loss and loss of appetite
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Crohn's Disease?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
She reviews your abdominal pain patterns, family history of IBD, diet, smoking status, and any weight changes.
Blood and Stool Tests
We check complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) for inflammation, and stool calprotectin to pinpoint gut inflammation.
Imaging Studies
Magnetic Resonance Enterography (MRE) to visualize bowel wall thickening and inflammation without radiation.
CT Enterography for detailed images of strictures, fistulas, or abscesses in the small and large intestine.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Colonoscopy with targeted biopsies or capsule endoscopy allows direct inspection of the mucosa and confirms the diagnosis.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Crohn's disease.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Eating less fiber and avoiding spicy foods during flare-ups
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
How do you test for Crohn's disease?
A combination of blood work, stool tests, imaging scans, and colonoscopy provides the most accurate diagnosis.
Can food fix Crohn's?
Diet changes can help manage symptoms, but most patients also need medication.
Is Crohn's medicine expensive?
Costs vary; our team works with you to find options that fit your budget.
Are biologics safe?
Yes. Biologics target gut inflammation but may increase infection risk. We monitor your health closely.
How often are follow-up visits?
Initially, visits occur every 3 to 6 months. Once stable, yearly check-ins are often enough.
Can Houston's heat worsen symptoms?
Hot weather and dehydration may affect symptoms. Stay hydrated and cool to help manage flare-ups.
