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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Discover effective Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) care in Houston with Dr. Nghia Nguyen, a gastroenterologist. Learn about personalized diagnosis, dietary strategies, medications and advanced therapies designed to ease pain, normalize bowel habits and improve quality of life for lasting relief.
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
Disrupted gut-brain communication
Post-infectious changes after a gastrointestinal infection
Food sensitivities or intolerances (e.g., FODMAPs)
Chronic stress, anxiety, or depression
Family history of IBS
Signs and Symptoms
Abdominal pain or cramping, often relieved by a bowel movement
Bloating and excess gas
Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both
Sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation
Passage of mucus in the stool
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptom pattern (pain location, severity, timing), dietary triggers, stressors, family history of GI disorders, and looks for any “alarm” signs.
Blood Tests
We check for anemia, thyroid function, celiac disease antibodies, and markers of inflammation (CRP/ESR) to rule out other causes.
Stool Studies
Tests include cultures for bacterial pathogens, ova & parasites, and fecal calprotectin to screen for inflammatory bowel disease.
Breath Tests
Hydrogen/methane breath testing helps identify small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or carbohydrate malabsorption.
Colonoscopy (If Indicated)
Performed when you have alarm features (unintentional weight loss, bleeding, anemia) or onset after age 50 to exclude polyps, IBD, or cancer.
Upper Endoscopy (As Needed)
For persistent epigastric pain or reflux symptoms, an EGD examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers or gastritis.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Low-FODMAP diet with systematic reintroduction of trigger foods
Targeted fiber adjustments for constipation-predominant IBS
Smaller, more frequent meals and increased water intake
Daily stress-reduction practices such as walking, stretching, and breathing exercises
2. Medications
Antispasmodic agents to relieve abdominal cramping
Anti-diarrheal medications for diarrhea-predominant IBS
Mild laxatives or stool softeners for constipation-predominant IBS
Low-dose antidepressants to modulate gut pain signals
3. Advanced and Specialized Therapies
Colonic therapy for severe or refractory symptoms
Nerve-stimulation treatments to manage chronic pain
Access to clinical trials exploring novel IBS therapies
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
Can I use over-the-counter medicine for IBS?
Yes, but always check with your doctor first.
How long does it take to get a diagnosis?
Most people are diagnosed within a few weeks.
Can teens have IBS?
Yes. IBS can start in childhood or the teen years.
Is IBS dangerous?
No. IBS is not life-threatening and does not cause lasting damage.
Does stress make it worse?
Yes. Managing stress can reduce how often you have symptoms.
