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Dyspepsia
Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs in Houston specializes in diagnosing and treating functional dyspepsia (ICD-10 K30). Offering personalized lifestyle, dietary, and medical therapies, plus advanced endoscopic testing, Dr. Nguyen helps relieve indigestion symptoms and restore digestive comfort quickly and compassionately.
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
Eating too much or too quickly
Spicy, greasy, or acidic foods
Stress or anxiety
Smoking or alcohol use
Painkillers such as NSAIDs
Underlying conditions like ulcers or gallstones
Signs and Symptoms
Pain or burning under the ribs
Feeling full soon after starting a meal
Bloating or gassy sensation
Nausea or frequent burping
Sour taste in the mouth or heartburn
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Dyspepsia &?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms—burning or stabbing pain in the upper abdomen, early fullness, bloating or nausea—and asks about your eating habits, stress levels, alcohol/tobacco use, NSAID intake and any referred pain to your back.
Laboratory Tests
Bloodwork to check for Helicobacter pylori, liver and pancreatic enzymes, and basic metabolic panel.
Stool antigen or breath test if H. pylori infection is suspected.
Endoscopy and Imaging
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to visualize the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for ulcers or inflammation.
Abdominal ultrasound to rule out gallstones, liver disease or biliary tract issues.
Functional Studies (if needed)
Gastric emptying scintigraphy or 24-hour pH monitoring to assess stomach motility and acid exposure when initial evaluations are inconclusive.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for dyspepsia.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eating smaller meals more often
Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms, like coffee or fried foods
Reducing stress through deep breathing or meditation
Stopping smoking and limiting alcohol
2. Medications
Antacids to calm stomach acid
H2 blockers or PPIs to reduce acid production
Prokinetics to help food move through the stomach faster
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic procedures to help the valve between the stomach and esophagus work better
Motility tests or pH monitoring for a closer look at stomach function
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 is the ICD-10 code for dyspepsia?
The code for functional dyspepsia is K30, which you can use for insurance and medical documentation.
Can dyspepsia cause back pain?
Yes. Upper abdominal discomfort can sometimes radiate to the back. Dr. Nguyen evaluates both areas during your exam.
How is functional dyspepsia treated?
Treatment includes dietary modifications, stress management techniques, and medications like antacids, H2 blockers, or PPIs tailored by Dr. Nguyen.
How long does dyspepsia last?
Duration varies. Some patients improve within days of lifestyle changes, while others may need weeks of treatment to see relief.
When should I see a doctor in Houston?
Schedule an appointment if you experience persistent pain, unexplained weight loss, vomiting, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.
What lifestyle changes help with dyspepsia?
Eat smaller, more frequent meals, avoid trigger foods (like spicy or fatty dishes), reduce stress, quit smoking, and limit alcohol consumption.
