1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

Duodenitis Without Bleeding

Duodenitis without bleeding refers to inflammation of the duodenum that causes discomfort but no active bleeding. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Rishi Chadha offers personalized diagnosis and treatment, combining dietary guidance, lifestyle adjustments, and care to restore your digestive health.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
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 Duodenitis Without Bleeding?

Duodenitis without bleeding is inflammation or irritation of the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) without any visible bleeding. It can cause upper-abdominal discomfort, but with timely diagnosis and simple treatments�diet changes, medications, and addressing underlying causes�most people recover quickly.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • H. pylori infection � a bacteria that weakens the digestive lining
  • NSAID overuse � frequent use of ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen
  • Excess stomach acid � from GERD or other acid-producing conditions
  • Smoking and alcohol use � both irritate the intestinal lining
  • Stress or autoimmune disorders � can trigger or worsen inflammation

Signs and Symptoms

  • Burning or aching pain in the upper belly
  • Feeling full quickly after meals
  • Bloating, nausea, or mild vomiting
  • Reduced appetite
  • Occasional heartburn
  • Discomfort often worsens when your stomach is empty

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Duodenitis Without Bleeding?

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your symptoms (pain, bloating, nausea), medication use (NSAIDs, aspirin), lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol), and other risk elements.

Lab Testing

Breath or stool tests to detect Helicobacter pylori infection.

Endoscopy

A thin, flexible camera inspects your duodenum; small tissue samples (biopsies) are taken to confirm inflammation and rule out ulcers.

Imaging (if needed)

  • Abdominal X-ray to exclude structural issues.
  • CT scan for detailed visualization when warranted.
Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for duodenitis without bleeding.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips

  • Eat smaller meals more often to ease irritation
  • Avoid spicy, greasy, or highly acidic foods
  • Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and smoking
  • Incorporate stress-relief activities such as deep breathing or yoga
  • Stay upright for at least 2 hours after meals

2. Medications

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid
  • H2 blockers for additional acid reduction
  • Antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori if present
  • Antacids for quick, short-term symptom relief

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Endoscopic therapy to treat ulcers or scarring without surgery
  • Targeted biopsies and localized treatments during endoscopy
  • Advanced endoscopic techniques for refractory or complicated cases
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 is duodenitis without bleeding?

Duodenitis without bleeding is inflammation of the duodenum (first part of the small intestine) with no visible bleeding. (ICD-10 code: K29.60)

How can I tell if I have it?

Common signs include upper-abdominal pain or burning, bloating, nausea, early fullness, and occasional heartburn�often worse on an empty stomach.

What is the ICD-10 code?

The medical coding for duodenitis without bleeding is K29.60, used for documentation and insurance purposes.

Can it lead to an ulcer?

Yes. If left untreated, duodenitis can progress to duodenal erosions or ulcers, even in the absence of bleeding.

Is H. pylori always the cause?

No. While H. pylori infection is common, other causes include NSAID overuse, excess stomach acid, stress, smoking, and alcohol use.

Do I need an endoscopy?

In most cases, yes. Endoscopy with possible biopsy confirms the diagnosis, rules out ulcers, and checks for other conditions.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

The Difference Between a Bellyache and Abdominal Pain

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Seven Signs You May Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Read More
Abdominal Pain

The Worst Ways to Manage Constipation (and What to Do Instead)

Read More