1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Ulcerative colitis
Discover comprehensive ulcerative colitis care in Houston with Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs. Board-certified in gastroenterology, he combines personalized diagnosis, lifestyle guidance, advanced treatments, and targeted medications to manage symptoms, support lasting remission and improve your overall quality of life.
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
Genetics - a family history of inflammatory bowel disease
Immune system dysfunction - the body attacks healthy colon tissue
Environmental triggers - diet, stress, smoking, certain medications
Age & ethnicity - most cases begin between 15-30 years; more common in Caucasians
Signs and Symptoms
Frequent bowel movements with blood or mucus
Abdominal cramps, often on the lower left side
Fatigue or low-grade fever during flare-ups
Poor appetite and unintended weight loss
Iron deficiency anemia from chronic bleeding
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your pain pattern (onset, duration, location), diet, medications, alcohol use, stressors, and family history. A hands-on exam checks for tenderness or guarding in the upper abdomen.
Laboratory Tests
Routine blood work may include:
Complete blood count (CBC) to look for anemia or infection
Liver function tests (LFTs) and pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase)
Celiac serology or H. pylori antibody/antigen testing
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas for stones or inflammation
CT scan of the abdomen if ultrasound is inconclusive or complications (like pancreatitis) are suspected
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
He performs an EGD to directly visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Biopsies can detect ulcers, gastritis, Barrett's esophagus, or H. pylori infection.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
For complex or refractory cases, additional studies may include gastric emptying scans, pH monitoring for reflux, or MRI for detailed soft-tissue evaluation.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for ulcerative colitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
7-day meal plan with low-fiber foods during flare-ups
Increased hydration to counter diarrhea
Stress management through yoga, deep breathing, or counseling
Light exercise to reduce inflammation and boost mood
2. Medications
5-ASA drugs (e.g., mesalamine) to lower inflammation
Short-term steroids to manage acute flare-ups
Immunomodulators to calm the immune response
Biologics that block specific proteins linked to inflammation
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic dilation to open narrowed areas in the colon
Laparoscopic surgery to remove damaged colon segments
IPAA surgery (ileal pouch-anal anastomosis) for long-term disease control
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 is ulcerative colitis different from Crohn's disease?
Ulcerative colitis affects only the inner lining of the colon and rectum, while Crohn's can involve any part of the GI tract and penetrate deeper layers of tissue.
How quickly do symptoms start?
Symptoms may develop gradually over several weeks, though some patients notice an abrupt onset of diarrhea, cramps, or bleeding.
Can ulcerative colitis go into remission?
Yes. With the right combination of medication, diet changes, and stress management, many people achieve symptom-free periods lasting months or years.
What medications treat ulcerative colitis?
Treatment options include 5-ASA drugs like mesalamine, short-term steroids, immunomodulators, and biologics—each selected based on disease severity and patient lifestyle.
When might surgery be necessary?
Surgery is considered for severe symptoms unresponsive to medical therapy, complications such as strictures or perforation, or if there's a heightened cancer risk.
Can I travel if I have ulcerative colitis?
Yes. Plan ahead by packing extra medications, identifying restroom locations, and sticking to your dietary routine to help prevent flare-ups on the road.
Does diet really help control symptoms?
Absolutely. A personalized meal plan—low in fiber during flares and balanced otherwise—can reduce inflammation and improve gut function alongside your medical treatment.
Related Blogs
Feel Like You Always Have Food Stuck in Your Throat? You May Have Dysphagia
