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Diverticulitis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides comprehensive expert diverticulitis care, emphasizing early diagnosis and personalized treatment. From diet and lifestyle adjustments to advanced imaging and minimally invasive procedures, his compassionate team ensures rapid relief and long-term digestive health.
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 over 40 years
Low-fiber diet
Overweight or physical inactivity
Smoking
Use of certain medications (NSAIDs, steroids)
Signs and Symptoms
Lower left abdominal pain
Fever and chills
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea or constipation
Blood or mucus in the stool
Loose or coated stools
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Diverticulitis?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms—changes in bowel habits, episodes of lower-left abdominal pain, fever—and discusses diet, activity level, and risk factors. He then performs a focused abdominal exam to check for tenderness, guarding, or masses.
Laboratory Tests
He orders blood work to look for elevated white blood cells and C-reactive protein, markers of inflammation. Occasionally, stool studies are done to rule out infectious causes.
Imaging Studies
CT Scan of the Abdomen - The gold standard to identify inflamed or perforated diverticula, abscesses, or fistulas.
Abdominal Ultrasound - A radiation-free option to detect abscesses or fluid collections, especially useful in patients who can't have a CT scan.
Colonoscopy (After Acute Episode)
Once the inflammation resolves, he may recommend a colonoscopy to evaluate the entire colon, confirm diverticular disease, and exclude malignancy or other conditions.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for diverticulitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Initial bowel rest followed by gradual reintroduction of low-residue foods
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
Does diverticulitis go away?
Yes. Many people recover with rest, antibiotics, and diet modifications. Long-term fiber adjustments can help prevent future flare-ups.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients feel better within about a week. If surgery is required, full healing may take several additional weeks.
What is the ICD-10 code for diverticulitis?
The ICD-10 code for diverticulitis is K57.x, covering various types with or without complications.
What does poop look like with diverticulitis?
Stools may be loose or coated, contain mucus, and in severe inflammation there can be blood.
Which drugs should I avoid?
Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin, and high-dose steroids unless directed by your doctor, as they can worsen colon irritation.
Can I stop this from happening again?
Yes. A high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, and regular exercise significantly lower the risk of another attack.
