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Duodenal Ulcer Doctor - Dr. Rishi Chadha

Finding a doctor with a medical specialty of treating the professional duodenal ulcer in Houston, Texas, in GastroDoxs, which specializes in duodenal ulcer treatment. Dr. Chadha is a board certified and experienced physician who presents a different diagnosis through the application of endoscopy and H. pylori tests among other broad-based treatment, including lifestyle counseling, pharmacotherapy, and minimally invasive intervention to provide healing of ulcers.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
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American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is a Duodenal Ulcer?

A duodenal ulcer is an intestinal perforation in the intestine of the duodenum which forms the first part of the small intestine. It happens when acidic gastrointestinal substances of the stomach burst the lining of the stomach exposing the acid to destroy the tissue beneath it. Unlike gastric ulcers developed in the stomach, duodenal ulcers are likely to cause an individual suffer pain a few hours after eating, or even in the night.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a bacterium that weakens the intestinal lining and leads to ulcer formation.
  • Long-term use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
  • Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which delay healing and increase stomach acid production.
  • Stress and certain foods — including spicy, fatty, or acidic items — that can worsen symptoms.
  • Family history of peptic ulcers.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, often between meals or at night.
  • Bloating, belching, or acid reflux (heartburn).
  • Feeling full quickly or experiencing nausea and loss of appetite.
  • Dark, tarry, or bloody stools indicating internal bleeding.
  • Unexplained weight loss or anorexia.

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Duodenal Ulcer?

Dr. Rishi uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Exam

He inquires about your symptoms, NSAID or aspirin use, alcohol and tobacco use, stressors and health history, in general.

H. pylori Testing

To diagnose the infection of Helicobacter pylori, we implement urea breath test, stool antigen test or blood antibody test.

Endoscopy

The stomach and duodenum lining can be directly observed by Dr. Rishi with help of a thin and flexible camera, which would determine and recognize any ulcers, bleeding or inflammation in the stomach.

Imaging Studies (if needed)

  • In the upper GI series (barium swallow), the ulcers were detected on the X-ray.
  • Complications are perforation or severe inflammation that are assessed through CT scan.

Biopsy During Endoscopy

Tiny tissue sample will be collected in case of any sign, to eliminate any existence of malignancy and demonstrate the existence of the H. pylori.

Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for duodenal ulcers.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Reduce acid buildup by eating smaller, more frequent meals.
  • Avoid acidic, greasy, or spicy foods that can irritate the stomach lining.
  • Quit smoking and avoid overeating to support healing.
  • Incorporate stress-relief practices such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises as recommended by your care team.

2. Medications

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid and promote healing.
  • H2-blockers to lower acid secretion and relieve symptoms.
  • Antibiotics to eliminate H. pylori infection if present.
  • Fast-acting antacids for quick relief from burning or pain.

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic therapy with clips or thermal treatment to control ulcer bleeding.
  • Laparoscopic surgery as a last resort for severe or recurrent complications.
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between duodenal and gastric ulcers?

Duodenal ulcers develop in the first part of the small intestine (duodenum), while gastric ulcers occur in the stomach. Pain from a duodenal ulcer usually appears a few hours after eating, whereas gastric ulcer pain tends to worsen during or immediately after meals.

How long does it take for a duodenal ulcer to heal?

With appropriate treatment, including proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and eradication of H. pylori infection, most duodenal ulcers heal within 4–8 weeks.

What is the ICD-10 code for duodenal ulcer?

The ICD-10 code for an unspecified duodenal ulcer without bleeding or perforation is K26.9. Other specific codes apply if bleeding or perforation is present.

Is a duodenal ulcer life-threatening?

While most duodenal ulcers are not life-threatening, complications such as severe bleeding or perforation can be serious. Early detection and expert medical care greatly reduce these risks.

How is a duodenal ulcer diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves endoscopy performed by Dr. Chadha, along with H. pylori testing (via breath, stool, or blood tests) and imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans if needed.

When should I see a specialist?

You should consult Dr. Rishi Chadha if you experience persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, vomiting blood, or notice black or tarry stools, as these may indicate complications.

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