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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in advanced GERD diagnosis and treatment. By combining personalized care, innovative procedures, and targeted lifestyle guidance, he helps patients alleviate heartburn, protect esophageal health, and regain comfort. Schedule your consultation.
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.
What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. It is more than occasional heartburn and often requires medical evaluation and long-term management.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Weakened or overly relaxed lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
Hiatal hernia
Overweight or obesity
Pregnancy
Smoking
Excessive alcohol use
Frequent consumption of spicy, fatty or fried foods
Trigger foods such as citrus, caffeine or chocolate
Certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, calcium channel blockers)
Common Symptoms
Frequent heartburn (burning chest pain)
Regurgitation of sour liquid or food
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Chronic cough
Hoarseness or laryngitis
Sore throat
Chest pain that may mimic cardiac issues
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms - including heartburn, regurgitation and epigastric pain - as well as lifestyle factors like diet, weight, smoking, alcohol use and medications.
Endoscopic Evaluation
An upper endoscopy (EGD) lets him inspect the esophagus for inflammation, erosions or Barrett's changes. Biopsies can be taken to rule out other causes of epigastric discomfort.
Motility and pH Testing
Esophageal pH monitoring measures acid exposure over 24-48 hours to confirm reflux episodes.
Esophageal manometry assesses the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and the strength of esophageal muscle contractions.
Additional Testing (if needed)
He may order a barium swallow study to evaluate for hiatal hernia or gastric emptying tests if delayed stomach emptying is suspected.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for GERD.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Customized meal plans to avoid trigger foods like spicy, fatty, citrus, chocolate, and caffeine
Recommendations on smaller, more frequent meals and not eating before bedtime
Guidance on weight loss, smoking cessation, and raising the head of your bed
2. Medications
Antacids for quick relief of heartburn symptoms
H2 blockers to reduce acid production
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for enhanced healing of the esophageal lining
Prokinetic agents when delayed stomach emptying contributes to reflux
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
LINX® device—magnetic bead ring to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter
Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)—endoscopic approach to recreate a valve at the gastroesophageal junction
Nissen fundoplication—laparoscopic surgery wrapping the stomach's top around the lower esophagus for long-term relief
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 GERD?
GERD with esophagitis is K21.0. GERD without esophagitis is K21.9.
Can food changes really help?
Yes. Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and waiting before lying down can reduce symptoms.
Are proton pump inhibitors the best treatment?
PPIs work well for many people with moderate to severe GERD. Dr. Nguyen will choose the best medicine for your needs.
When should I think about surgery?
If you still have symptoms after trying medicines and diet changes, or if you want to avoid long-term use of medications, surgery may help.
Is GERD dangerous?
If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious problems like inflammation, narrowing of the esophagus, or even Barrett's esophagus. Early treatment helps avoid these risks.
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