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Gastrointestinal Disorder
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott specializes in diagnosing and treating digestive conditions, from heartburn to inflammatory bowel diseases. With personalized care, advanced diagnostics, and tailored treatment plans, we help you relieve symptoms, restore gut health, and reclaim your well-being.
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.
What Is a Gastrointestinal Disorder?
A gastrointestinal (GI) disorder affects your digestive tract-from the esophagus down to the colon. It can lead to pain, bloating and changes in bowel habits that impact your daily life.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Diet: high-fat, spicy or heavily processed foods
Medications: NSAIDs, antibiotics and other stomach-irritating drugs
Stress and anxiety disrupting normal digestion
Family history of GI conditions (like IBD)
Smoking and excessive alcohol use damaging the gut lining
Signs and Symptoms
Belly pain or cramping
Bloating and excessive gas
Heartburn or acid reflux
Diarrhea or constipation
Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools
Unintended weight loss or persistent fatigue
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Gastrointestinal Disorders?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He begins by reviewing your symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits, nausea, or weight loss and evaluates factors like diet, medication use, travel history, and family history of digestive diseases.
Laboratory Tests
Initial blood work may include a complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests, pancreatic enzymes, thyroid screening, celiac panel, and inflammatory markers to help narrow down possible GI conditions.
Stool Testing
Tests for infection, parasites, or blood in the stool
Fecal calprotectin or lactoferrin to assess intestinal inflammation
Occult blood testing to detect microscopic bleeding
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate organs like the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas
CT scan: detailed cross-sectional images for complicated or atypical presentations.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper endoscopy (EGD) allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Biopsies can identify ulcers, gastritis or other mucosal diseases.
Motility & Functional Testing
If pain persists with normal imaging, tests such as gastric emptying studies or esophageal manometry assess for gastroparesis, dyspepsia or other motility disorders.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for gastrointestinal disorders.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Following a balanced diet, such as low-FODMAP or high-fiber meals
Eating small, frequent meals for easier digestion
Drinking more water and staying hydrated
Reducing stress with yoga, meditation, or counseling
2. Medications
Acid reducers or PPIs for heartburn and reflux
Antispasmodics to ease cramping
Anti-diarrheal agents or laxatives for bowel issues
Immunosuppressants or biologics for IBD management
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Balloon dilation to widen narrowed intestines
Capsule endoscopy to view the small intestine without surgery
Mucosal resection to remove abnormal tissue via endoscopy
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 causes most GI disorders?
Poor diet, stress, certain medications, smoking or alcohol use, and family history can all contribute to gastrointestinal issues.
When will I feel better with lifestyle changes?
Many patients notice symptom relief-less bloating, pain, and improved bowel habits-within 2 to 4 weeks after making recommended diet and stress-reduction changes.
Do colonoscopies hurt?
No. You'll be sedated and monitored throughout the procedure, so you remain comfortable and pain-free.
Can stress really affect my gut?
Absolutely. Stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen symptoms like cramping, bloating, heartburn, and irregular bowel movements.
When should I call a doctor in Houston?
Reach out right away if you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing fatigue.
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