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Presbyesophagus
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in diagnosing and managing presbyesophagus, an age-related swallowing disorder. Through personalized care—from lifestyle adjustments and medications to minimally invasive treatments—he helps seniors restore comfortable, safe eating and improve overall quality of life.
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
Aging - natural muscle weakening in the esophagus, often after age 60
Chronic acid reflux (GERD) that irritates the esophageal lining
Hiatal hernia, which can interfere with normal swallowing
Prior esophageal surgery or injury leading to scarring
Neuromuscular disorders that affect esophageal motility
Signs and Symptoms
Feeling of food “sticking” in the throat or chest, especially solids
Sensation of fullness or pressure in the chest after eating
Needing to sip water to help food pass
Heartburn or acid regurgitation
Occasional regurgitation of undigested food
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Presbyesophagus?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He discusses your swallowing difficulties, any epigastric pain or chest pressure, history of reflux or esophageal injury, and reviews medications and overall health.
Barium Swallow Study
You drink a radiopaque liquid while X-rays track its movement—this reveals areas of delayed transit, muscle weakness, or narrowing.
High-Resolution Esophageal Manometry
A thin catheter threaded through the nose measures the strength, coordination, and timing of esophageal muscle contractions as you swallow.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
An endoscope is passed into the esophagus to directly visualize the lining, rule out strictures or erosions, and take biopsies if needed.
Additional Testing (If Indicated)
24-Hour pH and Impedance Monitoring - quantifies acid and non-acid reflux episodes contributing to irritation.
Esophageal Biopsy - evaluates microscopic inflammation or uncommon causes of dysmotility.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for presbyesophagus.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Eat slowly: cut food into small bites and chew thoroughly
Choose softer foods like cooked vegetables and mashed fruits
Stay upright for at least 30 minutes after meals
Elevate the head of your bed to reduce nighttime reflux
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers to control heartburn
Prokinetic agents to improve esophageal muscle function
Protective agents to strengthen the esophageal lining if reflux is present
3. Minimally Invasive Treatments
Endoscopic dilation to gently stretch narrowed segments
Botox injections to relieve muscle spasms in the esophagus
Emerging options like electrical stimulation for select cases
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 presbyesophagus?
Presbyesophagus is a condition where aging weakens the muscles in the esophagus, making swallowing slower or more difficult.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms include trouble swallowing solid foods, feeling food stick in the throat, chest pressure, heartburn, or needing to drink water to help food pass.
How is presbyesophagus diagnosed?
Diagnosis may involve a barium swallow X-ray, high-resolution manometry to assess muscle strength, or an upper endoscopy to inspect the esophageal lining.
What treatment options are available?
Treatment often includes lifestyle and diet changes, medications to reduce acid or improve motility, and simple procedures like gentle dilation or Botox injections when needed.
Can diet and lifestyle changes help?
Yes. Eating small bites, chewing thoroughly, choosing soft foods, and staying upright after meals can greatly reduce symptoms.
Is presbyesophagus serious?
It is usually mild but can cause discomfort. With early care, most people experience significant improvement.
How soon will I feel better?
Many patients notice symptom relief within a few weeks of starting their personalized care plan.
