1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Acid Reflux
Struggling with heartburn or acid reflux? Experienced gastroenterologist Dr. Nghia Nguyen in Houston offers comprehensive diagnosis, personalized treatment plans at GastroDoxs. From lifestyle advice to minimally invasive procedures, Dr. Nguyen helps patients manage symptoms, prevent complications, and restore digestive health.
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.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Weak or relaxed lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
Hiatal hernia
Obesity or overweight
Pregnancy
Smoking
Excessive alcohol use
Spicy, fatty, or fried foods
Citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine
Signs and Symptoms
Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
Regurgitation of acid or food into the throat
Bitter or sour taste at the back of the mouth
Frequent belching or hiccups
Chronic cough or hoarseness
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Sensation of a lump in the throat
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Acid Reflux?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms—heartburn, regurgitation, chest or epigastric pain—along with dietary habits, medication use, alcohol and tobacco intake, and any risk factors like obesity or hiatal hernia.
Upper Endoscopy
A thin, flexible endoscope with a camera inspects your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to look for inflammation, erosions, ulcers, or Barrett's esophagus.
Esophageal pH Monitoring
This 24-hour test records acid exposure in your esophagus to quantify reflux episodes and correlate them with your symptoms.
Esophageal Manometry
We measure the strength and coordination of esophageal muscle contractions and evaluate the function of the lower esophageal sphincter.
Additional Imaging (if needed)
Barium Swallow - X-ray evaluation of esophageal motility, strictures, or hiatal hernia.
CT Scan - Reserved for complex cases to assess complications beyond the GI tract.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for acid reflux (GERD).
1. Diet and Lifestyle Tips
Eat smaller meals more often to reduce stomach pressure
Avoid eating within 2-3 hours before bedtime
Stay upright after meals to help prevent backflow
Avoid trigger foods such as coffee, chocolate, tomato sauce, spicy dishes, citrus fruits, peppermint, and fried or fatty snacks
2. Medications
Antacids for rapid, short-term relief
H2 blockers to decrease acid production
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to heal and protect the esophageal lining
Customized dosing and duration based on your individual needs and response
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures
Endoscopic fundoplication to reinforce the valve between the stomach and esophagus
Laparoscopic surgery (such as a Nissen fundoplication) for more durable reflux control
Outpatient, low-risk approaches with faster recovery compared to open surgery
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
What is the ICD-10 code for acid reflux?
Doctors use K21.9 for acid reflux without esophagitis.
Can you die from acid reflux in your sleep?
Acid reflux is usually not deadly, but it can lead to serious complications if ignored. Early treatment helps prevent problems.
Which foods should I avoid?
Avoid spicy foods, peppermint, chocolate, tomato sauce, citrus fruits, and caffeine, as these often make reflux worse.
What is an acid reflux diet?
An acid reflux diet means eating small, low-acid meals, eating earlier in the evening, and staying upright for at least two hours after eating.
When should I see a doctor?
If you experience heartburn more than twice a week or if it disrupts your sleep, schedule an appointment with your doctor.
How long does acid reflux last?
Mild reflux may resolve in a few weeks with lifestyle changes. Chronic reflux may require ongoing care and monitoring.
