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NSAID Enteritis
NSAID enteritis occurs when common pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen damage and inflame your small intestine. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers comprehensive expert diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and advanced procedures to restore your gut health effectively.
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
Frequent NSAID use - taking ibuprofen, naproxen or diclofenac daily or in high doses for weeks to months
Age over 60 - older adults have reduced mucosal defenses
Medical history - previous ulcers or chronic bowel conditions
Lifestyle habits - smoking and heavy alcohol intake that worsen gut injury
Signs and Symptoms
Abdominal pain or cramping, often around the belly button
Diarrhea, sometimes containing blood or mucus
Bloating and excessive gas
Unintended weight loss
Fatigue and weakness from poor nutrient absorption
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms, NSAID use history, prior gut conditions and risk factors, then gently examines your abdomen for tenderness, bloating, or other signs of inflammation.
Laboratory Tests
Blood tests check for anemia, elevated inflammatory markers, and nutrient deficiencies. Stool studies look for hidden bleeding or infection.
Imaging Studies
Capsule Endoscopy - A swallowable camera captures detailed images of the small intestine lining to spot ulcers or bleeding.
CT Enterography - Provides high-resolution scans of intestinal wall thickening and inflammation.
Endoscopic Evaluation (if needed)
An upper endoscopy or device-assisted enteroscopy allows direct visualization and biopsy of affected segments to confirm diagnosis and rule out other causes.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for NSAID enteritis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Stop or reduce NSAID use under Dr. Nguyen's guidance
Eat small, low-fiber meals during flare-ups
Stay hydrated and maintain electrolyte balance
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors to reduce acid and protect the gut lining
Sucralfate or misoprostol to promote mucosal healing
Probiotics to support healthy gut bacteria
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures
Endoscopic hemostasis using clips or thermal therapy to stop bleeding
Stricture dilation to open narrowed sections of the small intestine
Capsule endoscopy to monitor healing and detect new areas of damage
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 causes NSAID enteritis?
Frequent or high-dose NSAID use can damage the small intestine lining, leading to inflammation and injury.
When do symptoms start?
Symptoms often appear after weeks to months of regular NSAID use, though timing varies based on dosage and individual risk factors.
Can I stop NSAIDs right away?
Talk to Dr. Nguyen before stopping. He'll guide you through tapering or switching to safer pain-relief options.
Is this condition permanent?
No. With proper medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments, the intestine can heal and inflammation can resolve.
Will I need surgery?
Most patients improve with medications and minimally invasive procedures. Surgery is rarely required except in severe complications.
Are there over-the-counter treatments?
OTC antacids or PPIs may relieve mild symptoms temporarily, but full recovery requires a tailored treatment plan from Dr. Nguyen.
How can I prevent NSAID enteritis in the future?
Use the lowest effective NSAID dose for the shortest time. Dr. Nguyen can recommend alternative therapies and protective strategies.
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