Home › GI Symptoms and Conditions
Digestive & liver conditions · Cypress and Katy, TX
GI Symptoms and Conditions We Treat in Cypress & Katy, TX
United Gastroenterology Associates, PLLC evaluates and treats digestive and liver symptoms and conditions for patients in Cypress and Katy, TX, including heartburn and GERD, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, rectal bleeding, difficulty swallowing, IBS, IBD, celiac disease, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and hepatitis and fatty liver disease. Care is led by Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE, a board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist.
Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE
Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist
When Should You See a Gastroenterologist for Digestive Symptoms?
See a gastroenterologist when digestive symptoms last more than a few weeks, keep coming back, or come with warning signs such as rectal bleeding, black stools, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or unexplained weight loss. A gastroenterologist (GI doctor) diagnoses and treats conditions of the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, rectum, liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. At United Gastroenterology Associates, this care is provided by Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan at offices in Cypress and Katy, TX.
At United Gastroenterology Associates, PLLC, we understand the complexities and challenges of digestive health issues. Our expert team is dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of gastrointestinal symptoms and conditions. With modern diagnostic tools and a compassionate approach, we are here to help you achieve better digestive health.
The practice evaluates and manages a wide range of symptoms and conditions related to gastrointestinal and liver illness. Some of the common symptoms and GI conditions we treat are outlined below, but care is not limited to this list.
Board-Certified
Gastroenterology, hepatology, and internal medicine
Academic Medicine
Former Associate Professor, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
Published Research
More than 100 peer-reviewed articles in gastroenterology
FACP and FASGE
Fellow, American College of Physicians and American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Common Digestive Symptoms We Evaluate
These symptoms can have many causes. A GI evaluation looks for the cause and rules out serious conditions.
Nausea and Vomiting
Ongoing nausea or vomiting can come from stomach, gallbladder, or liver problems, medicines, or slow stomach emptying.
Difficulty Swallowing
Food sticking or pain with swallowing can be caused by narrowing, reflux, or inflammation of the esophagus.
Heartburn and Non-Cardiac Chest Pain
Chest pain not caused by the heart is often related to acid reflux or esophageal muscle problems, after heart causes are ruled out.
Bloating and Gas
Persistent bloating, gas, or excess flatulence may be linked to diet, IBS, constipation, or food intolerances.
Abdominal Pain
Pain that keeps returning or wakes you at night should be evaluated to find the cause.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea lasting more than four weeks can be caused by infections, IBS, IBD, celiac disease, or medicines.
Constipation
Hard or infrequent stools, straining, or a feeling of incomplete emptying that does not improve with diet changes.
Rectal Bleeding and Blood in Stool
Bright red blood, maroon stools, or black stools always need medical evaluation.
Rectal Pain and Hemorrhoids
Pain, itching, swelling, or bleeding around the anus from hemorrhoids, fissures, or other causes.
Decreased Appetite and Weight Loss
Unintended weight loss or loss of appetite needs evaluation for digestive, liver, and other causes.
Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia can signal slow bleeding in the digestive tract and often needs colonoscopy and upper endoscopy.
Vomiting Blood
Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds is an emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Warning Signs That Need Prompt Medical Care
Most digestive symptoms are not dangerous, but some signs point to bleeding, blockage, or serious disease and should be checked quickly.
If you have any of the signs below, contact the office or your doctor promptly. Emergency symptoms need care right away.
When to seek emergency care
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for vomiting blood, heavy rectal bleeding, black or tarry stools with dizziness or fainting, severe abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin with confusion.
Signs that need prompt evaluation
- Rectal bleeding or black stools
- Difficulty or pain with swallowing
- Unintended weight loss
- Persistent vomiting
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- New symptoms after age 45
- A family history of colon cancer or IBD
A symptom alone does not confirm a diagnosis. Symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
Digestive and Liver Conditions We Diagnose and Treat
Dr. Khan diagnoses and manages conditions throughout the digestive tract and liver.
GERD and Acid Reflux
Frequent heartburn and regurgitation from stomach acid backing up into the esophagus.
Gastritis and Ulcers
Inflammation or sores in the stomach lining, often from H. pylori infection or NSAID pain relievers.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Recurring abdominal pain with diarrhea, constipation, or both, without visible damage to the bowel.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
Colitis
Inflammation of the colon from IBD, infection, reduced blood flow, or microscopic colitis.
Diverticulitis
Inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon wall, causing lower abdominal pain and fever.
Celiac Disease
An immune reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine and can cause diarrhea, bloating, and anemia.
Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas that causes upper abdominal pain and can affect digestion.
Gallbladder and Bile Duct Disease
Gallstones, bile duct blockages, and chronic bile duct diseases such as primary biliary cholangitis.
Hepatitis A, B, and C
Viral infections of the liver that can cause inflammation, scarring, and liver damage.
Fatty Liver Disease (MASLD)
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, the most common chronic liver condition.
Colon Polyps and GI Cancer
Screening, diagnosis, and follow-up for colon polyps and cancers of the digestive system.
Not Sure What Is Causing Your Symptoms?
Dr. Khan evaluates digestive and liver symptoms at the Cypress and Katy offices and recommends the right tests for your situation.
How GI Symptoms Are Diagnosed
Diagnosis starts with your history and examination. Tests are chosen based on your symptoms, age, and risk factors, so not every patient needs every test.
History and Examination
Dr. Khan reviews when symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, your diet, medicines, family history, and prior test results.
Blood, Stool, and Breath Tests
Tests may check for anemia, inflammation, infection, celiac disease, H. pylori, liver function, and pancreatic enzymes.
Colonoscopy and Upper Endoscopy
Endoscopy lets the doctor see the lining of the digestive tract, take biopsies, and treat many problems during the same exam.
Imaging and Specialized Tests
Ultrasound, CT, MRI, FibroScan, pH monitoring, capsule endoscopy, and anorectal manometry are used when needed.
Living With a Chronic Digestive Condition?
Some digestive conditions, such as IBD, IBS, GERD, celiac disease, chronic pancreatitis, and chronic liver disease, need long-term care rather than a single visit. Ongoing care focuses on controlling symptoms, preventing complications, and monitoring with lab tests, imaging, or endoscopy when needed.
Learn about chronic GI conditions and long-term care.
“My gastroenterology & hepatology practice is dedicated to working closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and preferences.”
Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE
Board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist, United Gastroenterology Associates
Meet Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE
Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE, is a board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist who sees patients at the United Gastroenterology Associates offices in Cypress and Katy. He diagnoses and treats digestive and liver conditions and performs colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, and other GI procedures.
Dr. Khan earned his medical degree at Dow Medical College, completed an internal medicine residency at the University of Toledo, and completed a gastroenterology and hepatology fellowship at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. He served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and as an Associate Professor at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
He is board-certified in gastroenterology, hepatology, and internal medicine, is a Fellow of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (FASGE) and the American College of Physicians (FACP), and has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed articles. Read Dr. Khan’s full profile.
Professional Memberships
- American College of Gastroenterology
- American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (Fellow)
- American Gastroenterological Association
- American College of Physicians (Fellow)
- Texas Medical Association
- Texas Society of Gastroenterology & Endoscopy
Areas of Care
- Heartburn, GERD, and swallowing problems
- Abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel changes
- Rectal bleeding and anemia
- IBS, IBD, and celiac disease
- Pancreatic and gallbladder conditions
- Hepatitis and fatty liver disease
Why Choose United Gastroenterology Associates?
Patients choose the practice for specialist evaluation of both digestive and liver conditions under one physician.
Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dr. Khan is board-certified in gastroenterology, hepatology, and internal medicine.
Procedures in the Same Practice
Colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, and other tests are scheduled through the practice that evaluates you.
Focused Testing
Tests are chosen for your symptoms and risk factors, and results are explained in plain language.
Long-Term Follow-Up
Chronic conditions are followed with regular visits and testing when needed.
Insurance and Self-Pay
Most major insurance plans are accepted, and self-pay options are available.
Two Convenient Offices
Offices on Northwest Freeway in Cypress and Katy Freeway in Katy, with one number for scheduling.
Digestive Care at Our Cypress and Katy Offices
Patients with digestive or liver symptoms can be seen at either United Gastroenterology Associates office. The Cypress office is on Northwest Freeway (US-290), and the Katy office is on Katy Freeway (I-10). Both offices share one phone number for scheduling.
United Gastroenterology Associates – Cypress Office
Cypress office – Northwest Freeway (US-290)
- Address: 21216 Northwest Freeway, Suite 640, Cypress, TX 77429
- Phone: (346) 340-4414
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (closed 12:00–1:30 PM for lunch; last appointment 4:30 PM)
United Gastroenterology Associates – Katy Office
Katy office – Katy Freeway (I-10) near the Grand Parkway
- Address: 23920 Katy Freeway, Suite 555, Katy, TX 77494
- Phone: (346) 340-4414
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (closed 12:00–1:30 PM for lunch; last appointment 4:30 PM)
Insurance and Self-Pay Options
United Gastroenterology Associates accepts most major insurance plans, including the carriers shown here. Coverage for visits, testing, and procedures depends on your plan, so the office verifies your benefits before your appointment. Self-pay options are available.
A carrier logo does not guarantee coverage for a specific plan or service. Call (346) 340-4414 to confirm your benefits.
What Patients Say About Dr. Khan
These reviews were shared by patients of United Gastroenterology Associates and are published on the practice website.
“From the moment I walked in, I felt like I was in good hands at United Gastroenterology Associates. The staff was courteous and efficient, and the doctors were knowledgeable and compassionate. They diagnosed my condition quickly and provided an effective treatment plan. I’m feeling much better thanks to them!”
Olivia
“Dr. Khan is an exceptionally kind and compassionate physician. He truly listens to his patients and takes the time to explain everything clearly and thoroughly. His treatment plans are straightforward and easy to understand, and he provides a very personalized, attentive level of care. I felt respected, heard, and genuinely cared for throughout my visit.”
Maria Andreina Behrens · Katy
“United Gastroenterology Associates provided top-notch care during my visit. The facility was clean and welcoming, and the team made me feel comfortable from start to finish. Dr. Khan took the time to answer all my questions and made sure I understood my treatment plan. I couldn’t have asked for better care!”
Emma
How to Schedule a Digestive Care Appointment
Scheduling with United Gastroenterology Associates takes three steps. Request an appointment online or by phone and choose the Cypress or Katy office.
Request an appointment
Call (346) 340-4414 or use the online request form and choose “Digestive Symptoms” as the reason for your visit.
Share your records
Bring recent lab results, imaging reports, a medication list, and any referral. The office verifies your insurance or explains self-pay options.
Meet Dr. Khan
Dr. Khan reviews your history and results, explains what they mean, and recommends next steps, which may include further testing.
Frequently Asked Questions About GI Symptoms
Answers to common questions about digestive symptoms and when to see a gastroenterologist.
What does a gastroenterologist treat?
A gastroenterologist treats conditions of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas, such as GERD, IBS, IBD, celiac disease, pancreatitis, gallstones, hepatitis, and fatty liver disease.
When should I see a GI doctor for stomach problems?
See a gastroenterologist if symptoms last more than a few weeks, keep coming back, or come with bleeding, trouble swallowing, vomiting, anemia, or unexplained weight loss.
Is rectal bleeding always serious?
Not always. Hemorrhoids are a common cause, but rectal bleeding can also come from polyps, inflammation, or cancer, so it should always be evaluated.
What is the difference between IBS and IBD?
IBS causes pain and bowel changes without visible damage to the bowel. IBD (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) causes inflammation and damage that can be seen on tests.
Can stress cause digestive problems?
Stress can worsen symptoms of IBS, reflux, and other conditions through the gut-brain connection, but new or persistent symptoms should still be evaluated for other causes.
Do I need a colonoscopy for my symptoms?
Not always. A colonoscopy is recommended for symptoms such as rectal bleeding, anemia, chronic diarrhea, or a change in bowel habits, and for screening from age 45.
Do I need a referral to see a gastroenterologist?
Many patients can schedule directly. Some insurance plans require a referral, so contact the office to confirm based on your plan.
Where can I see a gastroenterologist in Cypress or Katy?
United Gastroenterology Associates has offices at 21216 Northwest Freeway, Suite 640, Cypress, TX 77429 and 23920 Katy Freeway, Suite 555, Katy, TX 77494. Call (346) 340-4414 to schedule.
Comprehensive Care for a Wide Range of Digestive Conditions
We treat a broad spectrum of common and complex conditions, including hepatitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, colitis, gallbladder and biliary tract diseases, nutritional disorders, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colon polyps, and cancers of the digestive system.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive Disorders
GERD, IBS, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, and other digestive conditions.
Endoscopic Procedures
Endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopy and upper endoscopy.
Management of Liver Diseases
Care for liver conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
Get Answers About Your Digestive Symptoms
Persistent digestive symptoms deserve a clear answer. Dr. Khan evaluates digestive and liver conditions for patients in Cypress, Katy, and the Houston area, and most major insurance plans are accepted. Call (346) 340-4414 or request an appointment online.
Stay informed
Get The Latest
Digestive Discomfort? When to Consult a Gastroenterologist
Consulting with a gastroenterologist can lead to more accurate detection of polyps and cancer, fewer complications from procedures, and shorter hospital stays. So, for individuals experiencing digestive issues or in need of screening, reaching out to a gastroenterologist for expert care is recommended. Read More
Understanding Your Digestive System, Symptoms and Causes
The digestive system is composed of many parts, including the G.I. tract, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder, so it’s no surprise that symptoms in these areas can vary widely. Some symptoms can be mild, indicating something as simple as eating questionable leftovers. Learn More
Sources
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Digestive Diseases. niddk.nih.gov
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Liver Disease. niddk.nih.gov
- MedlinePlus. Digestive Diseases. National Library of Medicine. medlineplus.gov
This page provides general educational information and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional. For a medical emergency, call 911. Content reviewed by United Gastroenterology Associates, PLLC. Last updated September 27, 2026.