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Esophagitis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers comprehensive anemia care, specializing in diagnosing and treating iron deficiency and blood disorders. With advanced diagnostic tools, personalized treatment plans, and expert nutritional guidance, he ensures patients regain energy and optimal 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
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and acid reflux
Medications that irritate the lining (NSAIDs, bisphosphonates, certain antibiotics)
Radiation therapy to the chest or neck
Caustic injury from swallowing harsh chemicals
Hiatal hernia and obesity (increased reflux risk)
Smoking and heavy alcohol use
Signs and Symptoms
Heartburn or acid regurgitation
Chest pain or discomfort behind the breastbone
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Painful swallowing (odynophagia)
Sensation of food getting stuck in the throat
Chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat clearing
Sore throat or voice changes
Unintended weight loss (in severe or long-standing cases)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Esophagitis &?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms—heartburn, regurgitation, timing and triggers of your epigastric pain—and assesses risk factors like NSAID use or smoking.
Laboratory Tests
Blood work evaluates for anemia, H. pylori infection, and inflammatory markers that may contribute to esophageal irritation.
Endoscopy with Biopsy
Upper endoscopy allows direct visualization of the esophageal lining to spot erosions, ulcers, or strictures.
Biopsy samples are taken to confirm the type of esophagitis (e.g., reflux, eosinophilic) and to rule out Barrett's esophagus or malignancy.
Imaging Studies
Barium swallow study outlines esophageal motility patterns and may reveal structural abnormalities.
CT scan or MRI is reserved for suspected complications (e.g., strictures, mass lesions).
pH Monitoring and Manometry
Ambulatory 24-hour pH testing quantifies acid exposure in the esophagus, while esophageal manometry assesses muscle contractions and sphincter function.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Impedance-pH monitoring can detect non-acid reflux events, and capsule endoscopy may be used in atypical cases or when small-bowel involvement is suspected.
Treatment
Our Team Offers a Full Range of Care for Esophagitis
1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Personalized meal plans that avoid trigger foods (spicy, acidic, or fatty items)
Smaller, more frequent meals to reduce pressure on the esophagus
Guidance on elevating the head while sleeping to minimize reflux
Smoking and alcohol cessation support
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid and allow healing
H2 blockers for acid suppression if PPIs are not tolerated
Antacids to provide quick, short-term relief
Medications to treat underlying infections (e.g., antifungals for candida esophagitis)
3. Advanced Procedures
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to evaluate the extent of inflammation and collect biopsies
Dilation procedures for patients with esophageal narrowing (strictures)
Esophageal pH monitoring if acid reflux is suspected as a primary cause
Allergy testing and dietary therapy for eosinophilic esophagitis
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 esophagitis?
The code is K20.9 for general esophagitis and K20.0 for eosinophilic esophagitis.
How long does healing take?
Mild cases often heal in a few weeks, while more severe types may take several months with consistent treatment.
Can diet alone help eosinophilic esophagitis?
Some patients improve significantly with diet changes, but others also need medication to control inflammation.
Is it risky to leave esophagitis untreated?
Yes. Without proper care, it can lead to scarring, strictures, and long-term swallowing problems.
Will I need more than one procedure?
Sometimes. Patients with persistent inflammation or strictures may require repeat endoscopies or dilations.
Do you treat teens with this condition?
Yes. Dr. Scott treats teens and works with pediatric specialists when needed for younger children.
