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HPV
Human papillomavirus (HPV) affects millions worldwide, often resolving on its own but sometimes leading to warts, cellular changes or cancer. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides comprehensive diagnosis, personalized patient treatment and preventive guidance for all HPV-related concerns.
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
Sexual contact: HPV spreads through vaginal, anal or oral sex.
Early sexual activity: Starting sex at a younger age raises risk.
Multiple partners: More partners increase your chance of exposure.
Weakened immunity: Conditions or medications that lower immunity let HPV thrive.
Smoking: Tobacco use can make it harder to clear the virus.
Signs and Symptoms
Often none - many people never develop noticeable symptoms.
Genital warts: Flat or raised bumps on the penis, vulva, vagina, cervix or around the anus.
Itching, burning or discomfort in the affected area.
Abnormal bleeding or discharge in women, sometimes detected on Pap tests.
Cell changes in high-risk infections: Detected via Pap smear, HPV DNA tests or anal swabs before cancer develops.
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your sexual history, symptoms and any prior screenings to assess risk factors.
Visual Examination
He inspects the skin and mucous membranes of the genital, anal and oral areas for warts or lesions.
Diagnostic Tests
Pap test (for women) to detect abnormal cervical cells.
HPV DNA test to identify high-risk virus strains.
Anal or penile swabs for men with symptoms or elevated risk.
Follow-Up Consultation
He explains your results in clear terms, answers your questions and outlines personalized next steps.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for HPV treatment.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Quit smoking to help your immune system fight HPV
Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains
Practice safe sex by using condoms and limiting the number of partners
2. Medications
Topical creams prescribed to treat visible warts
Immune response modifiers to help your body clear the virus faster
Pain relief options to ease discomfort from lesions
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Cryotherapy: Freezing warts with liquid nitrogen
Electrocautery: Burning warts off with a small electrical current
Laser therapy: Using focused light to remove stubborn lesions
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
How many people have HPV?
Nearly all sexually active adults will get some type of HPV in their lifetime. Most clear the virus naturally without issues.
Can a man give a woman HPV?
Yes. HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, even when no symptoms are present.
Do I need an HPV test for men?
Testing may benefit men at higher risk, such as those living with HIV or who have anal warts. Dr. Nguyen can advise if screening is right for you.
What are HPV symptoms in women?
Women may notice genital warts, itching, unusual discharge, or abnormal results on a Pap test.
Is there a vaccine for HPV?
Yes. The HPV vaccine protects against the most harmful strains. It's recommended for individuals starting as young as age 9 and up to age 45.
Can HPV cause cancer?
Certain high-risk HPV strains can lead to cervical, anal, throat, or penile cancer. Regular screenings help catch precancerous changes early.
How do I reduce my risk of HPV?
Use condoms, limit sexual partners, get vaccinated, and attend routine screenings as recommended by Dr. Nguyen.
