1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Abdominal Pain
Experiencing discomfort in your abdomen can disrupt daily life. In Houston, Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs offers expert evaluation and care to pinpoint your abdominal distension's cause. From lifestyle adjustments to advanced minimally invasive procedures, he ensures accurate diagnosis and relief.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Infections or inflammation (e.g., Crohn's disease, diverticulitis)
Tumors or polyps in the stomach or intestines
Bowel obstructions from scar tissue or hernias
Fluid collections or abscesses around abdominal organs
Previous abdominal surgery or traumatic injury
Family history of gastrointestinal cancers or inflammatory bowel disease
Smoking, heavy alcohol use, or certain medications
Signs and Symptoms
Persistent belly pain or cramping
Unexplained weight loss
Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools
Bloating or a constant feeling of fullness
Fever or night sweats if an infection is present
Some patients may have no symptoms, and the CT scan is the first indicator
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He begins by discussing your pain's location, intensity, timing, duration, triggers (such as food or stress), and whether it radiates or is linked to symptoms like nausea, bloating, or changes in bowel habits.
Laboratory Tests
Initial blood work helps detect signs of infection, inflammation, or organ dysfunction. Tests may include:
Complete blood count (CBC)
Liver and pancreatic enzyme levels
Electrolyte balance and kidney function
H. pylori testing if upper GI pain is present
Urinalysis if urinary causes are suspected
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to assess organs like the gallbladder, liver, kidneys, or uterus (in females).
CT scan for a more detailed view of abdominal structures, especially in acute or unexplained pain cases.
X-rays to detect bowel obstruction or abnormal gas patterns.
Endoscopic Evaluation
If upper or lower GI causes are suspected, Dr. Scott may perform:
Upper endoscopy (EGD): To examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers, inflammation, or reflux disease.
Colonoscopy: To evaluate for colonic inflammation, tumors, or other abnormalities causing lower abdominal pain.
Additional Testing (If Needed)
Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Scott may recommend:
Stool studies for infections or inflammatory markers
Breath tests for lactose intolerance or SIBO
Pelvic ultrasound for gynecological conditions in females
Motility testing for chronic functional abdominal pain
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for abnormal pain findings.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Add fiber to improve digestion
Avoid foods that trigger gas or acid
Drink more water
Manage stress with light exercise or relaxation
2. Medications
Antibiotics to treat infection or abscess
Anti-inflammatory drugs for Crohn's disease or colitis
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for stomach irritation
Laxatives or stool softeners for constipation
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopy to remove small growths or early-stage tumors
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
When should I get help for abdominal pain?
Seek medical care if your pain is severe, lasts more than 24 hours, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, vomiting, or blood in your stool or vomit.
Can stress cause upper left abdominal pain?
Yes. Stress can trigger conditions such as acid reflux or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which may cause burning or sharp pain under the left ribs.
What causes lower abdominal pain in females?
Common causes include menstrual cramps, ovarian cysts, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or gastrointestinal issues like IBS.
Do I always need imaging for abdominal pain?
No. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans are ordered only when your history, physical exam, and lab results suggest a need for further evaluation.
How do I prepare for an endoscopy?
You'll be asked to fast for several hours. Our team will provide specific instructions on diet restrictions and preparation to ensure a smooth and safe procedure.
Will diet changes really help my pain?
Yes. Avoiding trigger foods-such as spicy, fatty, or acidic meals, and eating smaller, more frequent portions can help reduce abdominal discomfort.
Is ICD-10 coding important for abdominal pain?
Absolutely. Proper coding helps ensure accurate diagnosis, guides treatment plans, and facilitates insurance approvals and reimbursements.
