1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Duodenal Ulcer
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in treating duodenal ulcers—sores in the small intestine caused by excess acid. Using advanced diagnostics, personalized lifestyle and dietary advice, plus targeted medications, he delivers fast relief, effective healing, and digestive wellness.
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
Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)
Long-term use of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen
Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
Excessive alcohol consumption
High stress levels or poor sleep habits
Signs and Symptoms
Burning or aching pain in the upper abdomen, often worsening at night
Pain that improves temporarily after eating or taking antacids
Early satiety, burping, or bloating
Heartburn or acid reflux
Vomiting blood (hematemesis) or passing dark, tarry stools (melena) in severe cases
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your epigastric pain—its timing, severity, relationship to meals, NSAID or alcohol use—and performs a focused abdominal exam to check for tenderness or signs of complications.
Blood Tests and H. pylori Testing
We draw a CBC to look for anemia from bleeding. To detect H. pylori, we choose among a urea breath test, stool antigen test, or blood antibody screening based on your presentation.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Direct visualization of the duodenum to identify and size the ulcer.
Targeted biopsies to confirm H. pylori infection and exclude other causes like malignancy.
Imaging Studies
Upper GI series (barium swallow) to outline ulcer location when endoscopy is inconclusive or delayed.
CT scan of the abdomen if complications such as perforation, obstruction, or abscess are suspected.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
For refractory or atypical cases, tests like gastric pH monitoring or motility studies may be ordered to evaluate acid exposure or gastric emptying.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for duodenal ulcers.
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 it take to heal a duodenal ulcer?
Most duodenal ulcers heal in 4 to 8 weeks with the right medications and diet adjustments.
What is the ICD-10 code for duodenal ulcer?
The general ICD-10 code for a duodenal ulcer is K26.9. Specific codes vary based on ulcer type and complications.
Can I exercise with a duodenal ulcer?
Yes. Gentle activities like walking or yoga are safe and may help reduce stress that can aggravate symptoms.
What foods should I avoid?
Avoid spicy foods, citrus drinks, coffee, fried foods, and alcohol to prevent irritation and promote healing.
Does stress cause ulcers?
Stress alone doesn't cause ulcers but can worsen symptoms and slow healing if not managed.
Will I need antibiotics?
If you test positive for H. pylori infection, a short course of antibiotics will be part of your treatment plan.
When should I go to the ER?
Seek emergency care if you vomit blood, experience severe abdominal pain, or pass black, tarry stools.
