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Cystic Fibrosis
At GastroDoxs in Memorial City, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in cystic fibrosis care. From newborn screening and sweat tests to personalized treatment plans with CFTR modulators, nutrition strategies, and advanced therapies, our team delivers tailored support to help patients thrive.
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
Mutation in the CFTR gene
Inheriting a CFTR mutation from both parents
A family history of cystic fibrosis
Most common in people of Northern European descent, though it can affect any ethnicity
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent, wet-sounding cough
Frequent lung infections or pneumonia
Trouble gaining weight or poor growth
Greasy, bulky stools or frequent constipation
Salty-tasting skin, especially after sweating
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Cystic Fibrosis?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Newborn Screening
All Texas newborns undergo routine CF screening shortly after birth to catch early signs.
Sweat Test
Measures chloride levels in sweat. Elevated salt concentrations are a hallmark of CFTR dysfunction.
Genetic Testing
Analyzes the CFTR gene for known mutations to confirm a diagnosis and guide personalized treatment.
Lung and Digestive Assessment
Pulmonary Function Tests evaluate lung capacity, airflow, and detect early obstruction.
Gastrointestinal Evaluation includes stool elastase and imaging to assess pancreatic function and nutrient absorption.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for cystic fibrosis.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Eat high-calorie, high-protein meals
Take pancreatic enzyme pills to help digest food
Get enough vitamins A, D, E, and K
Perform daily chest therapy to clear mucus
Stay active and well-hydrated
2. Medications
CFTR modulators to improve cellular function
Mucolytics to thin mucus for easier breathing
Inhaled antibiotics to treat or prevent lung infections
Anti-inflammatories to reduce lung swelling
3. Procedures and Advanced Care
Endoscopy for digestive blockages
Bronchoscopy to clear mucus and assess airways
Access to clinical trials of emerging CF treatments
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 best treatment for cystic fibrosis?
A mix of CFTR modulators, pancreatic enzyme pills, daily chest therapy, and a high-calorie, high-protein diet works best. Dr. Nguyen tailors each plan to your specific needs.
How common is cystic fibrosis?
About 30,000 people in the U.S. have CF. In Texas, roughly 1 in 3,500 babies is born with the condition.[1]
How does CF affect amino acids?
CF impairs digestion of proteins, making it harder to absorb amino acids. Pancreatic enzyme replacement helps improve nutrient uptake.
What is the average life expectancy with CF?
With modern treatments and multidisciplinary care, many people with CF live into their 40s and beyond.
Can adults be diagnosed with CF?
Yes. Some individuals have milder mutations and receive a diagnosis later in life. Dr. Nguyen uses sweat chloride and genetic testing to confirm CF.
How do I manage CF in Houston's summer heat?
Stay well-hydrated, use air conditioning, and continue your chest physiotherapy routine—even on the hottest days.
Is cystic fibrosis contagious?
No. CF is an inherited genetic disorder, not an infectious disease. You cannot catch it from someone else.
