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Ulcers
At GastroDoxs in Midtown Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides comprehensive, expert diagnosis and personalized treatment for peptic ulcers. Utilizing advanced endoscopy, tailored meal plans, lifestyle guidance, and compassionate care, he helps patients heal quickly and restore digestive health.
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.
What Is Ulcers?
An ulcer is a sore that forms on the lining of your stomach, small intestine or esophagus. Peptic ulcers are the most common type. They can cause pain, burning and sometimes bleeding. Early care helps you heal faster and feel better.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Helicobacter pylori infection
Long-term use of NSAIDs (ibuprofen or aspirin)
Smoking and heavy alcohol use
Stress and spicy foods (may worsen symptoms)
Family history of ulcers
Signs and Symptoms
Burning or gnawing pain between meals or at night
Bloating, burping or feeling full quickly
Nausea or vomiting
Dark, tarry stools (sign of bleeding)
Unexplained weight loss or appetite change
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He reviews your pain patterns (especially epigastric burning), NSAID or aspirin use, alcohol and tobacco habits, stress levels and family history of ulcers.
H. pylori Testing
Non-invasive breath, blood or stool tests identify Helicobacter pylori infection, a leading cause of peptic ulcers.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper endoscopy allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum lining.
Biopsies during endoscopy confirm H. pylori presence and exclude other conditions.
Laboratory Tests
Blood work checks for anemia (from bleeding ulcers), infection markers and nutritional deficiencies.
Imaging Studies (if needed)
CT scan or abdominal ultrasound is ordered when complications—such as perforation, obstruction or bleeding—are suspected.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for ulcers.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat smaller, more frequent meals to ease stomach workload
Avoid trigger foods: coffee, spicy dishes and fatty meals
Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
Manage stress with relaxation techniques and adequate sleep
Natural relief for mouth ulcers: warm saltwater rinses or honey applications
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid production
H2-blockers to ease pain and promote ulcer healing
Antibiotic regimens for Helicobacter pylori eradication
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic therapy for clotting or clipping bleeding vessels
Surgical referral for severe, perforated or non-healing ulcers
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 long does it take for ulcers to heal?
Most peptic ulcers heal in 4-8 weeks with proper treatment and diet changes.
Do I need to avoid coffee or tea?
Limit caffeine. Switch to decaf or herbal teas. Green tea in moderation may soothe your stomach.
What drinks are good for ulcers?
Water, aloe vera juice (in small amounts) or non-acidic herbal teas can help calm your stomach lining.
How can I cure mouth ulcers fast naturally?
Rinse with warm saltwater, apply honey, and avoid spicy or acidic foods until the sore heals.
What is the difference between arterial vs venous ulcers?
Arterial ulcers result from poor arterial blood flow; venous ulcers arise from vein issues. Both require a vascular specialist's care—Dr. Nguyen can coordinate referrals.
Can stress really cause ulcers?
While stress alone doesn't cause ulcers, it can worsen symptoms. Relaxation techniques, exercise, and adequate sleep support healing.
Is there a 7-day meal plan for ulcers?
Yes. A soft, low-acid diet—such as oatmeal, cooked vegetables, and lean proteins—helps repair your stomach lining over one week. Dr. Nguyen can tailor this plan to your needs.
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