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Diverticular Bleeding
Diverticular bleeding occurs when small colonic pouches bleed, often without warning. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides expert diagnosis and personalized treatment—from dietary changes to minimally invasive procedures—offering compassionate, comprehensive care to resolve bleeding and reduce future recurrence.
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 Diverticular Bleeding?
Bleeding from small pouches (diverticula) that form in the colon wall
Often occurs when a vessel in a diverticulum erodes and leaks blood
Common in older adults due to age-related changes and increased colon pressure
May stop on its own but sometimes requires medical evaluation and treatment
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Aging colon tissue - diverticula form more easily over time
Increased colon pressure - straining during bowel movements
Certain medications - blood thinners and NSAIDs can raise bleeding risk
Low-fiber diet - hard stools increase colon pressure and pouch formation
Signs and Symptoms
Bright red or maroon blood in the stool
Usually painless bleeding episodes
Dizziness or feeling faint if blood loss is significant
Low blood pressure or general weakness in severe cases
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses It
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step method:
Medical history - We ask about symptoms, medications, and your diet
Physical exam - A simple belly check helps spot signs
Blood tests - Look for anemia or signs of bleeding
Colonoscopy - A small camera finds the bleeding spot and checks for pouches
Imaging - CT angiography may be used if bleeding is hard to find
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for diverticular bleeding.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat more fiber - Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables help soften stools
Drink plenty of water to keep stools easy to pass
Avoid delaying bathroom trips to minimize straining
2. Medications
Iron supplements to treat anemia from blood loss
Antispasmodics to calm colon muscle spasms
Collaboration with your doctor to adjust blood thinner therapy safely
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic therapy - Clip or seal bleeding vessels during colonoscopy
Angiographic embolization - Block bleeding arteries via interventional radiology
Surgery - Reserved for recurrent or uncontrollable bleeding
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 long does diverticular bleeding last?
Most mild cases stop within a day. More serious ones may need treatment.
Is it dangerous?
It can be if bleeding is heavy or doesn't stop. Getting care early keeps you safe.
Can I treat it at home?
Drink water, eat fiber, and avoid straining. But call a doctor if bleeding is heavy.
How is it different from hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids cause pain or itching near the anus. Diverticular bleeding is usually painless and shows as red blood in stool.
Can it come back?
Yes. About 1 in 5 people have it again. A healthy diet lowers that risk.
Do I still need a colonoscopy if bleeding stops?
Yes. It checks for other problems and confirms the source of bleeding.
Should I avoid certain foods in Houston's heat?
Spicy and processed foods may upset your colon. Choose fresh, local fruits and veggies, and stay hydrated.
