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Top Epigastric Pain Gastroenterologist
Burning the skin under the breast: this kind of pain can interfere with the life. Dr. Scott of GastroDoxs, Houston, provides extensive professional diagnosis and individual treatment of epigastric pain. He provides effective pain relief and caring through sophisticated imaging and customized medication.
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
Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Peptic ulcers
Gallbladder or bile duct disorders (e.g., gallstones)
Pancreatic inflammation (pancreatitis)
Frequent NSAID or other medication use
Smoking, excessive alcohol intake, or chronic stress
Poor diet or family history of digestive conditions
Signs and Symptoms
Burning, gnawing, or sharp pain below the breastbone
Pain that worsens after eating or when lying down
Nausea, heartburn, or a sour/bitter taste in the mouth
Pain radiating to the back
Feeling full quickly (early satiety)
Red-flag symptoms such as vomiting blood, unexplained weight loss, or fever
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He investigates your medical and eating history, medication, alcohol and lifestyle. An intensive physical examination then identifies tenderness or swelling in the upper abdomen.
Blood Tests
We test infection or inflammatory (CBC, CRP) or liver enzymes (pancreatic enzymes amylase, lipase), pancreatic enzymes (pancreatic enzymes) (H. pylori), and antibodies to H. pylori.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to assess the gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, and liver for stones, inflammation, or masses.
CT scan to obtain detailed cross-sectional images of the pancreas and surrounding structures when more clarity is needed.
Upper endoscopy that will allow examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum in case of ulcers, gastritis, or esophagitis and taking biopsies when required.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to diagnose and treat bile or pancreatic duct obstructions, or functional disorders with special motility.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for epigastric pain.
1. Modifications in Lifestyle and Diet
Consume less food but more often so as to digest it easily.
Avoid food that causes discomfort such as spicy, high-fat, or acidic foods.
Stop smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
Train stress-reduction exercise, such as yoga or mindfulness.
2. Medications
Antacids to counter excess stomach acid.
H2 blockers or proton pump diseases to control acid on a long-term basis.
Antibiotics to eliminate H. pylori infection on discovery.
Pancreatic enzyme supplements (should they be required) of the pancreas.
3. Minimally invasive or High-tech Procedures
Endoscopy in order to treat or visualize ulcers or inflammation.
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) due to the problems with the bile or pancreatic duct.
Raz Laparoscopic cholecystectomy to excise the gallbladder stones when required.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code of epigastric pain?
The code is R10.13. It is applied to medical records and insurance.
Why do I need to worry about this kind of pain?
You are advised to seek treatment in case the pain is excessive, accompanied by vomiting of blood, fever, and unexplainable weight loss.
Is it possible that stress results in epigastric pain?
Yes. Stress may promote the secretion of stomach acid and aggravate the suffering of the upper abdomen.
What is the duration of effectiveness of treatment?
The benefits of the recommended plan are observed by many patients within days to a couple of weeks.
Is an endoscopy painful?
No. The process is done by being sedated hence comfortable the whole process.
And what can it mean that the pain extends to the back?
Back pain with radiating pains can be a sign of pancreatitis or ulcer and it has to be examined swiftly.
