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Esophageal Strictures
Struggling with painful swallowing? Esophageal strictures narrow your food pipe, causing discomfort and weight loss. Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs in Houston offers expert diagnosis and personalized treatment—from dilation and medication to lifestyle guidance—ensuring you regain comfort and nutritional 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.
Eosinophilic esophagitis — allergic inflammation inside the esophagus
Radiation therapy — damage to chest or neck tissue
Ingestion of corrosive substances — such as bleach or strong cleaners
Older age and smoking — cumulative damage over time
Signs and Symptoms
Trouble swallowing solids or liquids
Pain when swallowing (odynophagia)
Sensation of food sticking in the throat or chest
Unexplained weight loss
Regurgitation of food without nausea
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Esophageal Strictures?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He reviews your swallowing difficulties, heartburn episodes, epigastric discomfort, previous reflux treatments and other risk factors such as smoking or prior radiation.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
A flexible scope visualizes the entire esophagus, stomach and duodenum to identify strictures, inflammation, ulcers or other abnormalities.
Barium Swallow X-Ray
You drink a contrast solution while real-time X-rays map the shape and pinpoint the exact location and length of any narrowing.
Esophageal Manometry (If Indicated)
This pressure-measurement test assesses esophageal muscle function to rule out motility disorders contributing to epigastric pain or dysphagia.
Biopsy and Tissue Analysis
During endoscopy, small samples may be taken to check for eosinophilic esophagitis, Barrett's changes, infection or malignancy.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for esophageal strictures.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat soft foods that are easy to chew
Take small bites and chew slowly
Avoid spicy, acidic, or very hot drinks
Sit upright for at least 30 minutes after meals
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce acid reflux
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid and prevent damage
H2 blockers for milder acid control
Steroids for allergic (eosinophilic) esophagitis
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic dilation to gently stretch narrowed segments
Temporary stent placement to keep the esophagus open
Scar-tissue removal using specialized endoscopic tools
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 esophageal stricture?
The code is K22.2, used for records and insurance purposes.
How long does dilation relief last?
Most patients feel better for several months. Some require follow-up treatments as needed.
Can strictures become cancerous?
No; strictures do not turn into cancer, but ongoing irritation should be monitored.
Can diet alone fix an esophageal stricture?
Diet helps manage symptoms, but most people still need dilation or medication for lasting relief.
Can I eat after dilation?
Yes. Start with soft foods later the same day unless Dr. Nguyen advises otherwise.
Will I need more than one dilation?
Some patients do. Dr. Nguyen will design a plan to limit repeat procedures.
Is dilation painful?
No. With sedation, patients typically feel only mild pressure during the procedure.
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