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Gastrointestinal Disorder

Digestive troubles can disrupt daily life, causing pain, bloating and irregular bowel habits. Dr. Rishi Chadha, board-certified gastroenterologist at GastroDoxs in Houston, offers comprehensive care-from diagnosis to personalized treatments-to help you restore digestive health and reclaim comfort, energy and well-being.

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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 Are Gastrointestinal Disorders?

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders affect your digestive system-from your throat to your colon. These conditions can change how you digest food, absorb nutrients, or move waste. Many people in Houston seek help when they experience pain, bloating, or trouble with bowel habits.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Eating too many processed or fatty foods
  • Low fiber intake
  • Ongoing stress or anxiety
  • Stomach or intestinal infections
  • Autoimmune problems (like celiac disease)
  • Smoking or drinking too much alcohol
  • Family history of GI illness

Signs and Symptoms

  • Stomach cramps or belly pain
  • Bloating or excessive gas
  • Acid reflux or heartburn
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Blood in stool (seek medical attention immediately)

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Gastrointestinal Disorders

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

Medical History & Symptom Review

He discusses your digestive complaints, diet, family history and any prior GI issues to pinpoint possible causes.

Physical Examination

At his Houston clinic, Dr. Chadha performs a focused abdominal exam, checking for tenderness, swelling or abnormal sounds.

Laboratory Tests

Depending on your symptoms, he may order:

  • Blood tests to assess for anemia, infection or inflammation
  • Stool studies to detect infections, blood or malabsorption
  • Breath tests for small-intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or lactose intolerance

Imaging & Advanced Procedures

When needed, Dr. Chadha recommends:

  • CT scan or MRI to visualize the bowel and surrounding organs
  • Upper endoscopy to examine the esophagus, stomach and duodenum
  • Colonoscopy to evaluate the colon and rectum, with optional biopsy
Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of treatment options at GastroDoxs.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Low-FODMAP diet for IBS
  • Gluten-free diet for celiac disease
  • High-fiber meals with lean protein
  • Eating smaller meals more often
  • Relaxation methods like deep breathing or light exercise

2. Medications

  • Antacids or proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid reflux
  • Antispasmodics for stomach cramps
  • Antibiotics or probiotics to support gut health
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs for Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Colonoscopy or upper endoscopy for direct visualization
  • Balloon dilation to open narrowed sections of the GI tract
  • Laparoscopic surgery for hernias or gallbladder issues
  • ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) for bile duct and pancreas problems
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 most common GI disorders?

GERD, IBS, Crohn's, colitis, and celiac disease.

When should I see a doctor for belly pain?

If pain is strong, lasts more than two days, or comes with fever or bleeding.

Can stress affect digestion?

Yes. It can worsen acid reflux and trigger IBS symptoms.

How are GI disorders diagnosed?

Through medical history, physical exams, lab tests, and procedures like endoscopy or colonoscopy.

Is there a special GI-friendly diet?

Yes. It includes fiber-rich foods, lean protein, and avoiding triggers like spicy or fatty meals.

Will I need surgery?

Most people improve with medicine and diet. Surgery is only for certain cases.

Can kids have GI issues?

Yes. Children can have reflux, IBS, or celiac disease too.

How long does treatment take?

Many patients feel better in a few weeks. Chronic cases require longer care.

Do I need to prepare for a colonoscopy?

Yes. You'll follow a clear liquid diet and take a special prep to clean your bowels.

When should I see a gastroenterologist?

If you have long-term belly pain, reflux, bleeding, or unexplained weight loss, it's time to see a specialist.

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