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Hematemesis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides expert care for hematemesis—vomiting blood due to ulcers, gastritis, or varices. With advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, compassionate follow-up, Dr. Nguyen's team ensures fast effective relief and comprehensive support for your 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
Peptic ulcers or stomach sores
Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
Esophageal varices (swollen veins in the esophagus)
Heavy alcohol use or certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs)
Liver disease or blood‐clotting disorders
Signs and Symptoms
Vomiting bright red blood or dark, coffee-ground-like material
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or faint
Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
Signs of anemia such as fatigue or pale skin
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Hematemesis and Epigastric Pain
Dr. Nguyen uses a structured, step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your vomiting episodes, character of the blood (bright red vs. coffee-ground), NSAID or alcohol use, liver disease history, and performs a focused abdominal exam for tenderness or signs of bleeding.
Laboratory Tests
Complete blood count to check for anemia, coagulation studies (PT/INR, aPTT), liver function tests, and H. pylori testing if ulcer disease is suspected.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to directly visualize and often treat bleeding sources—peptic ulcers, gastritis, varices, or Mallory-Weiss tears.
Endoscopic ultrasound in select cases to assess submucosal lesions or variceal size.
Imaging Studies
Contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen to detect perforations, masses, or signs of portal hypertension.
Angiographic studies when endoscopy is nondiagnostic and bleeding persists.
Additional Diagnostics
If the source remains elusive, capsule endoscopy or MR enterography can be used to identify small-bowel bleeding sites or obscure lesions.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of treatment options for hematemesis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eat small, soft meals and avoid spicy foods
Cut back on alcohol and caffeine intake
Quit smoking to reduce reflux and bleeding risks
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors to lower stomach acid
Antibiotics if an H. pylori infection is detected
Drugs to support clotting or protect the stomach lining
3. Procedures
Endoscopic therapy to locate and stop bleeding
Banding or sclerotherapy for esophageal varices
Capsule endoscopy to identify hard-to-see bleeding sites
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 hematemesis?
The main code is K92.0. If you have nausea with vomiting blood, your doctor may also add R11.2 for associated nausea.
How is hematemesis different from melena?
Hematemesis means vomiting blood. Melena refers to dark, tarry stools from digested blood. Both warrant prompt medical attention.
What tests help diagnose hematemesis?
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, stool studies, upper endoscopy, imaging scans, and a thorough medical history.
Can I have hematemesis with nausea?
Yes. Nausea often precedes vomiting blood, and both symptoms are addressed together in evaluation and coding.
Is hematemesis dangerous?
It can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Early diagnosis and intervention by Dr. Nguyen help prevent serious complications.
How soon will I feel better?
Many patients experience symptom relief within days of starting treatment and making recommended lifestyle changes.
Do I need to fast before an endoscopy?
Yes. Fasting for 6 to 8 hours before the procedure ensures a clear view of your upper digestive tract during endoscopy.
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