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Gastroparesis
Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs in Houston offers expert care for gastroparesis, a condition that slows stomach emptying. Using advanced testing, personalized diet medication plans, compassionate support, he helps patients quickly reduce symptoms, improve digestion, and regain nutrition and energy.
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
Diabetes (type 1 or type 2)
Nerve damage from surgery or illness
Medications that slow digestion (e.g., opioids, certain antidepressants)
Autoimmune diseases
Idiopathic (unknown) causes
Signs and Symptoms
Nausea or vomiting undigested food
Feeling full after only a few bites
Bloating or abdominal pain
Unintended weight loss
Heartburn or acid reflux
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Gastroparesis?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History & Physical Exam
She reviews your symptoms (nausea, bloating, fullness), past surgeries or illnesses, current medications (especially opioids or antidepressants), and diabetes control.
Gastric Emptying Study
A nuclear medicine scan tracks a test meal over several hours to measure how slowly the stomach empties.
Upper Endoscopy
An endoscopic exam rules out blockages, ulcers, or other structural abnormalities that could mimic gastroparesis.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound evaluates the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas for contributing issues.
CT scan offers detailed cross-sectional images if ultrasound findings are inconclusive.
Additional Testing (if needed)
In select cases, Dr. Nguyen may order a wireless motility capsule or breath tests to assess small-intestinal bacterial overgrowth or other motility disorders.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for gastroparesis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat small, frequent meals to reduce fullness
Chew food thoroughly; consider soft or blended options
Avoid high-fat and high-fiber foods that slow stomach emptying
Stay hydrated with water or clear liquids between meals
2. Medications
Prokinetic agents (e.g., metoclopramide) to enhance gastric motility
Anti-nausea medications to control vomiting and discomfort
Review and adjust any existing drugs that may delay digestion
3. Advanced Treatments
Botox injections or endoscopic dilation to relax the pyloric muscle
Gastric electrical stimulation (“gastric pacemaker”) for refractory symptoms
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 gastroparesis?
The ICD-10 code is K31.84.
Can gastroparesis go away on its own?
Mild cases may improve with diet changes, but many people require medications or other treatments to manage symptoms.
How long does treatment take?
Some patients notice relief within a few weeks, though full improvement can take several months of consistent care.
Can I still work or drive with gastroparesis?
Yes. With appropriate management and support from your care team, most people continue their normal daily activities.
How do you test for gastroparesis in Houston?
We perform gastric emptying studies, upper endoscopy, and imaging (ultrasound or CT) all on-site at GastroDoxs.
What foods are best for gastroparesis?
Opt for soft, low-fat, low-fiber choices such as yogurt, bananas, tender chicken, smoothies, and well-cooked vegetables.
Can I follow a plan to cure my gastroparesis?
There's no single cure, but many patients improve with a combination of a soft diet, prokinetic medications, and advanced endoscopic treatments if needed.
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