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Hypertension
Discover expert hypertension care in Houston with Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs. Specializing in personalized blood pressure management, Dr. Nguyen offers comprehensive diagnostics, tailored lifestyle guidance, and advanced treatments to help you achieve optimal cardiovascular health and prevent long-term complications.
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
Family history of high blood pressure
Being overweight or obese
Physical inactivity
Diet high in salt (sodium)
Excessive alcohol consumption
Chronic stress or poor sleep quality
Age over 40 years
Underlying conditions like diabetes or kidney disease
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in the early stages (“silent killer”)
Morning headaches
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Blurred or impaired vision
Nosebleeds in severe cases
Fatigue, confusion, or shortness of breath
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your pain pattern (location, timing, triggers), medication use, alcohol intake, NSAID use, and any red-flag symptoms (weight loss, bleeding).
Laboratory Tests
Blood work may include:
CBC (to check for anemia or infection)
Liver function tests and pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase)
H. pylori breath or stool antigen test
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas
CT scan of the abdomen if complications or atypical features are present
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper endoscopy (EGD) allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers, gastritis, or reflux damage.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
In select cases, he may order:
Esophageal pH or impedance monitoring for acid reflux assessment
Gastric emptying study for suspected gastroparesis
Manometry if motility disorders are a concern
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for hypertension.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Follow the DASH diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Cut daily sodium intake to under 1,500 mg
Exercise at least 150 minutes per week
Maintain a healthy weight (BMI under 25)
Limit alcohol and quit smoking
Reduce stress with yoga, meditation or other relaxation techniques
2. Medications
ACE inhibitors or ARBs to relax blood vessels
Calcium channel blockers to improve blood flow
Diuretics (“water pills”) to reduce blood volume
Beta-blockers to slow the heart rate and lower pressure
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Renal denervation in clinical/research settings for resistant cases
Implantable nerve stimulators to help control stubborn hypertension
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's the difference between hypertensive urgency and emergency?
Urgency is when your blood pressure is very high but there's no sign of organ damage. Emergency means there is acute damage to the heart, brain, or kidneys. Both require prompt medical care.
Can I control blood pressure without medicine?
Some people achieve normal readings through diet, exercise, weight loss, and stress management alone. Others will also need medication to reach target levels safely.
How often should I check my blood pressure?
If you have hypertension, monitor it at home daily or weekly as advised. Dr. Nguyen reviews your readings at each visit to adjust your treatment plan.
I read a blog called “how I cured my pulmonary hypertension.” Is that real?
Pulmonary hypertension affects the lungs and right heart, which is different from systemic (regular) high blood pressure. Always consult your doctor before trying new treatments.
Does a high diastolic number matter?
Yes. A high bottom (diastolic) number can damage small blood vessels over time. Dr. Nguyen monitors both systolic and diastolic values to protect your health.
Is high blood pressure genetic?
Yes. A family history raises your risk. If hypertension runs in your family, Dr. Nguyen will help you adopt preventive measures and early treatment.
When should I go to the ER for high blood pressure?
Seek immediate emergency care if you experience very high readings alongside severe headache, chest pain, vision changes, shortness of breath, or confusion.
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