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Odynophagia
Odynophagia, or painful swallowing, can disrupt daily life and nutrition. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in diagnosing and treating this condition through comprehensive evaluation, lifestyle adjustments, medications, and advanced procedures. Discover relief and restore enjoyable meals again.
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
Acid reflux (GERD)
Infections (viral or fungal)
Throat‐irritating medications
Ulcers or esophagitis
Esophageal or throat cancer
Smoking
Heavy alcohol use
History of acid reflux
Signs and Symptoms
Pain when swallowing food, drinks, or saliva
Chest pain that may radiate to the back
Sensation of food sticking in the throat
Unexplained weight loss
Eating less to avoid pain
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Odynophagia?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your symptoms—pain when swallowing food, liquids or saliva—along with any chest or epigastric discomfort, reflux history, smoking/alcohol use and other risk factors.
Endoscopy
A thin, flexible camera is passed through your mouth to directly inspect the throat and esophagus for inflammation, ulcers, strictures or tumors.
Barium Swallow X-ray
You drink a chalky barium solution so X-rays can track how liquids and solids move down your esophagus, revealing narrowing or motility issues.
Biopsy (If Needed)
If Dr. Nguyen spots abnormal tissue during endoscopy, he takes tiny samples to check for infection, esophagitis, Barrett's changes or malignancy.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for odynophagia.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Eat smaller meals more often
Avoid spicy, acidic, or very hot foods
Stay upright for at least 30 minutes after eating
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
Elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches
2. Medications
Antacids or H₂ blockers to neutralize stomach acid
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for stronger, long-lasting acid control
Mild pain relievers for comfort
Antiviral or antifungal drugs when infections are present
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic dilation to gently stretch strictures or narrowed areas
Radiofrequency therapy to reinforce the lower esophageal valve
Botox injections to relieve muscle spasms in the throat
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's the difference between odynophagia and dysphagia?
Odynophagia is pain when swallowing. Dysphagia is trouble swallowing. You can have both at the same time.
How long does odynophagia last?
That depends on the cause. Reflux-related pain may improve in a few weeks, while infections often heal in a few days.
Can odynophagia cause weight loss?
Yes. Painful swallowing can make you eat less, leading to unintended weight loss.
What's the ICD-10 code for odynophagia?
The ICD-10 code for odynophagia is R13.1.
When should I see a doctor about odynophagia?
You should seek medical attention if you experience severe chest pain, vomiting blood, difficulty swallowing both food and liquids, or unexplained weight loss.
What's the difference between dysphagia and dyspepsia?
Dysphagia means trouble swallowing, whereas dyspepsia refers to indigestion or an upset stomach.
Are natural remedies helpful for odynophagia?
Diet and lifestyle changes can ease symptoms, but it's important to consult a doctor to identify and treat the underlying cause.
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