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Gastric Erosion Without Bleeding
Gastric erosion without bleeding is a condition marked by superficial stomach lining breaks that don't cause blood loss. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers expert comprehensive diagnosis, personalized treatment plans and support to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
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.
What Is Gastric Erosion Without Bleeding?
Gastric erosion without bleeding refers to small, shallow breaks in the stomach's inner lining that haven't started to bleed. These erosions stay on the surface and don't penetrate deeply like ulcers. You may feel discomfort or pain, but you won't see blood in your vomit or stool. The ICD-10 code for this condition is K29.50.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Frequent NSAID use (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
Excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption
Helicobacter pylori infection
Chronic stress or prolonged illness
Smoking and eating spicy or acidic foods
Signs and Symptoms
Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen
Indigestion or heartburn
Nausea or mild vomiting
Feeling full quickly after eating small amounts
Reduced appetite or food avoidance
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Gastric Erosion Without Bleeding?
Medical History and Symptom Review
Dr. Nguyen asks detailed questions about the location, timing, and triggers of your epigastric pain, as well as NSAID use, alcohol or caffeine intake, dietary habits, stress levels, and any prior GI history.
Physical Examination
He performs a focused abdominal exam to locate tenderness, assess for rebound or guarding, and exclude other causes of upper abdominal discomfort.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Direct visualization of the stomach lining to identify small, shallow erosions without active bleeding.
Assessment of mucosal integrity, inflammation, and any anatomical abnormalities.
Biopsy and Laboratory Analysis
During EGD, targeted biopsies are taken from suspicious areas to test for H. pylori infection, evaluate histologic inflammation, and rule out other pathology.
Blood Tests and H. pylori Breath Test
Dr. Nguyen orders a complete blood count to check for anemia, plus serologic or urea breath testing to confirm or exclude H. pylori as a causative factor.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for gastric erosion without bleeding.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Avoid NSAIDs, alcohol, and caffeine
Eat smaller meals more often
Limit spicy, fried, or acidic foods
Quit smoking
Try stress relief techniques like meditation or deep breathing
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid
H2 blockers for continued acid control
Antacids for fast relief
Sucralfate to coat and protect the stomach lining
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Second endoscopy to view and treat the affected areas
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 gastric erosion without bleeding?
The code is K29.50 for unspecified gastritis or gastroduodenitis without bleeding.
How is gastric erosion treated?
Treatment includes lifestyle and diet changes, acid-reducing medications (PPIs or H2 blockers), antacids, and sucralfate. Follow-up endoscopy may be recommended if symptoms persist.
Can gastric erosion lead to bleeding?
Not initially. If left untreated, shallow erosions can deepen, break blood vessels, and cause bleeding.
How long does healing take?
Most patients notice significant relief within 4 to 8 weeks when adhering to the prescribed treatment plan.
Can diet alone heal gastric erosion?
Dietary modifications help reduce irritation, but acid-blocking medications are often needed to fully protect and allow the stomach lining to repair.
When should I see a Houston GI doctor?
If you experience upper abdominal pain, persistent indigestion, nausea, or poor appetite for more than one week, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs.
