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Fecal Abnormalities

Experiencing unusual stool changes? In Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs deciphers fecal abnormalities—from oily, floating stools to blood or mucus. Discover causes, symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and personalized treatments designed to restore your digestive health and help you feel best.

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Difficulty Swallowing

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

About the Expert

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

Malabsorption disorders (e.g., celiac disease, chronic pancreatitis)
Infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic)
Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
Dietary issues (high-fat diet, lactose intolerance, overuse of laxatives)
Medications (especially antibiotics or certain supplements)
Family history of IBS or other gastrointestinal disorders
Local environmental risks (contaminated food or water in Houston)

Signs and Symptoms

Loose or watery stools that persist for days
Pale, bulky, oily stools that float (steatorrhea)
Visible blood or mucus in the stool
Sudden urges to defecate or difficulty holding stool
Bloating, gas, and abdominal cramping
Fatigue, unintended weight loss, or signs of nutrient deficiencies

How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Fecal Abnormalities

Dr. Nguyen follows a structured diagnostic process at GastroDoxs:

Health & Symptom Review

He discusses your medical history, diet, recent travel, and any medications that could affect your digestion or stool patterns.

Physical Examination

A gentle abdominal exam helps identify areas of pain, bloating, or signs of dehydration.

Stool Testing

Lab tests analyze stool samples to detect fat malabsorption, infection, inflammation, or parasites.

Blood Work

Tests may check for anemia, signs of infection, or vitamin deficiencies linked to digestive problems.

Imaging & Endoscopic Procedures

Ultrasound or CT scan to visualize internal organs and identify obstructions or inflammation.
Colonoscopy may be recommended to directly examine the colon and rectum.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for fecal abnormalities.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips

Eat low-fat foods to reduce oily stools and bloating
Try smaller meals to ease digestion
Take probiotics, especially after antibiotics
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

2. Medications

Pancreatic enzymes to help digest fat
Anti-inflammatory drugs for IBD
Antibiotics or antiparasitics to treat infections
Antidiarrheals for short-term relief

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

Endoscopy to check for bleeding or tight areas
Capsule endoscopy—a small camera pill—to view the small intestine

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About the Author

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the first sign of fecal abnormalities?

Oily, bulky, or watery stools are common first signs.

Do I need to fast before a fecal fat test?

No. You can do the test at home without fasting.

How soon will I feel better?

Most people feel better in a few days. Lab results usually take 1-2 weeks.

Is steatorrhea serious?

Yes. If not treated, it can cause weight loss, tiredness, and vitamin deficiencies.

Can diet fix the problem?

Sometimes. Mild cases may improve with diet changes alone; others need medication or enzyme supplements.

Do you take my insurance?

Yes! We accept most major plans. Our staff can verify your benefits before your visit.

How fast can I get an appointment?

We offer same-week visits for urgent needs and flexible scheduling for routine care.

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