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Erosive Gastropathy
Erosive gastropathy, marked by stomach lining inflammation and erosions, can cause pain, nausea and bleeding risks. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers over a decade of expertise, precise diagnostics, personalized treatments and compassionate care to restore 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
Regular use of NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
Excess stomach acid from stress, alcohol, or spicy foods
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
Chronic illness such as liver or kidney disease
Smoking or heavy alcohol consumption
Signs and Symptoms
Pain or burning sensation in the upper abdomen
Nausea or feeling full too soon
Occasional vomiting
Loss of appetite or slight weight loss
Dark, tarry stools if bleeding occurs
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Erosive Gastropathy?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your epigastric pain, NSAID or alcohol use, smoking habits and other risk factors (stress, chronic illness).
Laboratory Tests
Blood work checks for H. pylori antibodies and a complete blood count to detect anemia from possible bleeding.
Non-Invasive H. pylori Testing
Urea breath test to identify an active H. pylori infection.
Stool antigen test for bacterial confirmation.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
An endoscopic exam allows direct visualization of the stomach lining, identifying erosions and noting “stigmata of recent bleeding” if present.
Final Report and Coding
All findings are documented, including the ICD-10 code K29.7, to guide treatment and insurance follow-up.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for erosive gastropathy.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat smaller meals more frequently
Avoid spicy, fried or acidic foods
Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake
Quit smoking
Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid
H2-blockers for milder acid control
Antibiotics when Helicobacter pylori infection is present
Sucralfate or other protective coatings for the stomach lining
3. Advanced or Minimally Invasive Procedures
Endoscopic treatments for any bleeding lesions
Radiofrequency ablation in severe or refractory cases
Biofeedback or clinical hypnosis if stress is a key trigger
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 erosive gastropathy?
The ICD-10 code for erosive gastropathy is K29.7.
Can it heal without medicine?
Mild cases may improve with diet and lifestyle changes alone, but medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can speed up healing and relieve symptoms.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients start feeling better within 4 to 6 weeks with proper treatment and dietary adjustments.
Do I need an endoscopy?
An upper endoscopy (EGD) provides a direct view of your stomach lining and confirms the diagnosis; it's the gold standard for evaluating erosive gastropathy.
Is it dangerous?
If left untreated, erosive gastropathy can lead to bleeding, anemia, or more serious gastric complications. Early diagnosis and management help prevent these outcomes.
Can stress make it worse?
Yes. Stress can increase acid production and exacerbate inflammation, so incorporating stress-reduction techniques is recommended.
Where can I get care in Houston?
Dr. Nghia Nguyen treats erosive gastropathy at GastroDoxs, with offices near Texas Medical Center and Memorial Park. Call today to schedule your appointment.
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