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Nausea With Vomiting
Struggling with persistent nausea and vomiting? Dr. Nghia Nguyen, a board-certified gastroenterologist at GastroDoxs in Houston, offers evaluations and personalized treatments. From dietary adjustments and medications to advanced procedures, he's dedicated to identifying the root cause and restoring your well-being.
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
Viral infections (stomach flu or gastroenteritis)
Food poisoning from contaminated or spoiled foods
Migraine headaches
Pregnancy-related nausea (“morning sickness”)
Side effects of medications (antibiotics, chemotherapy)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Nausea With Vomiting?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your symptom timeline, triggers, medication use (including recent antibiotics or chemo), travel history, pregnancy status, and migraine history. On physical exam, he checks for epigastric tenderness, abdominal distension, bowel sounds, and signs of dehydration.
Blood Tests
His lab panel typically includes a complete blood count (CBC) to detect infection or anemia, comprehensive metabolic panel for electrolytes, liver function tests, amylase/lipase to exclude pancreatitis, and H. pylori testing when ulcer disease is suspected.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate the gallbladder, liver, and biliary tract for gallstones or inflammation.
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for gastritis, ulcers, or obstruction.
CT scan of the abdomen if complications such as bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, or abscess are a concern.
Functional Testing
If gastroparesis or motility disorders are suspected, he orders a gastric emptying study. Esophageal pH monitoring or manometry may be used for reflux-related epigastric pain.
Advanced Procedures (if needed)
For complex cases, Dr. Nguyen may perform endoscopic ultrasound to assess pancreatic and biliary pathology or capsule endoscopy to examine the small intestine for bleeding or inflammation.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for nausea with vomiting.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Eat small, plain meals throughout the day
Avoid greasy, spicy, or acidic foods
Sip water or electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated
Rest in a quiet, comfortable environment
2. Medications
Ondansetron to control strong nausea
Metoclopramide to speed up stomach emptying
Prochlorperazine for general nausea relief
Acid reducers if heartburn or reflux is present
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopy to evaluate for blockages or other abnormalities
Botox injections to relax stomach muscles in gastroparesis
Gastric pacemaker (stomach stimulation) for chronic vomiting
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 nausea with vomiting?
The code is R11.2. It's used for medical records, billing, and insurance purposes.
When should I see a gastroenterologist?
If you've been vomiting for more than two days, feel very weak, or notice blood in your vomit, it's time to consult a specialist.
Can I treat nausea and vomiting at home?
Mild cases often improve with rest, bland foods (like toast or crackers), and plenty of clear fluids or electrolyte drinks.
Are anti-nausea medications safe?
Most antiemetic drugs are safe when used as directed. Dr. Nguyen will review potential side effects and choose the best option for you.
Do I need diagnostic tests right away?
Not always. Many patients start with lifestyle changes and medications. Blood tests or imaging come later if symptoms persist or worsen.
What if I have migraines and nausea?
Dr. Nguyen can evaluate your migraine history and may coordinate care with a headache specialist or prescribe migraine-specific treatments.
What if nothing helps my vomiting?
If conventional therapies fail, advanced options like endoscopy, Botox injections for gastroparesis, or gastric stimulation may be recommended.
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