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Barrett's Esophagus
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers diagnosis and management of Barrett's esophagus, a precancerous condition from chronic acid reflux. Using personalized care plans, advanced endoscopic techniques, and lifestyle guidance, he helps protect esophageal health and reduce cancer risk.
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
Chronic acid reflux or GERD
Long-term heartburn
Age over 50
Male gender
White ethnicity
Obesity, especially abdominal fat
History of smoking
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Frequent heartburn or acid regurgitation
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Persistent chest pain or discomfort
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
She evaluates your heartburn frequency, acid-reflux episodes, chest discomfort, swallowing difficulties and known risk factors (age, gender, smoking history, weight).
Physical Examination
A focused exam of your throat and abdomen to detect signs of esophageal irritation or tenderness.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper Endoscopy: A thin, flexible scope is passed into your esophagus to visualize any intestinal‐type changes.
Targeted Biopsy: Small tissue samples are taken from suspicious areas for microscopic analysis.
Biopsy Confirmation and Coding
The pathology report confirms whether Barrett's tissue or dysplasia is present and establishes the appropriate ICD-10 code (K22.7) for your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Barrett's esophagus.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat small, frequent meals and avoid spicy, fatty, or sour foods
Raise the head of your bed 6-8 inches to reduce nighttime reflux
Lose excess weight and maintain a healthy BMI
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
2. Medications
We follow the latest clinical guidelines for Barrett's esophagus management.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid production
H2-receptor blockers for milder or breakthrough symptoms
Antacids for quick, over-the-counter relief
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to remove damaged esophageal tissue
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for raised or suspicious areas
Cryotherapy to freeze and eradicate abnormal cells
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 causes Barrett's esophagus?
Long-term acid reflux damages the lower esophagus lining, causing it to change and resemble intestinal tissue.
What is the ICD-10 code for Barrett's esophagus?
The official code is K22.7, which is used for diagnosis, treatment planning, and insurance purposes.
Can Barrett's be cured?
There is no cure, but with lifestyle changes, medication, and regular surveillance, you can control symptoms and lower cancer risk.
How often should I have an endoscopy?
Most patients need surveillance endoscopy every 3-5 years, depending on biopsy findings and presence of dysplasia.
Are ablation treatments painful?
Patients typically experience only mild discomfort. Procedures such as radiofrequency ablation are performed under sedation for your comfort.
Will my insurance cover diagnosis and treatment?
Most insurance plans cover Barrett's esophagus care. Our administrative team will help you verify benefits and obtain any necessary authorizations.
When is a biopsy necessary?
If the endoscopy reveals abnormal or suspicious tissue, Dr. Nguyen will perform a biopsy to check for precancerous or cancerous cells.
