How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Gastric Ulcer?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptom patterns (burning or sharp epigastric pain), NSAID use, alcohol and tobacco habits, stress levels, and family history of ulcers.
Noninvasive H. pylori Testing
- Breath test to detect active Helicobacter pylori infection.
- Stool antigen test for H. pylori eradication status.
Upper Endoscopy
An endoscope allows direct visualization of the stomach lining, identifies ulcer location and severity, and permits biopsy to rule out malignancy.
Blood Tests
We check for anemia (low hemoglobin) and markers of inflammation or bleeding.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Occasionally, CT imaging is ordered to evaluate for perforation or penetration, and specialized biopsies assess ulcer complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for a gastric ulcer?
The most common code is K25.9 (unspecified gastric ulcer). If there's bleeding, perforation or other complications, a more specific code such as K25.0-K25.4 will be used.
How long does a gastric ulcer take to heal?
With proper treatment—medications, diet and lifestyle changes—most gastric ulcers heal in 4 to 8 weeks.
What foods should I avoid with a gastric ulcer?
Steer clear of spicy dishes, caffeine (coffee, tea, soda), alcohol, citrus fruits, and fried or greasy foods, as they can irritate the stomach lining.
What should I eat during recovery?
Opt for plain, low-fat, easy-to-digest foods such as yogurt, skinless chicken, steamed vegetables, bananas and oatmeal to soothe the stomach.
Can stress cause ulcers?
Stress alone doesn't create ulcers, but it can worsen symptoms, delay healing, and trigger behaviors (e.g., smoking) that increase ulcer risk.
Do I need an endoscopy to diagnose an ulcer?
Yes. Upper endoscopy is the gold standard for directly visualizing the ulcer, assessing its severity, and ruling out other conditions.
When should I see a gastroenterologist in Houston?
Make an appointment if you experience persistent upper abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, difficulty eating, or any signs of bleeding (bloody vomit or dark stools).
