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Reflux Esophagitis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in diagnosing and treating reflux esophagitis—an inflammation caused by stomach acid backflow. Combining advanced diagnostics, personalized lifestyle and medication plans, cutting-edge procedures, he helps patients relieve symptoms and protect their esophageal 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
Frequent acid reflux (GERD)
Hiatal hernia
Overweight or obesity
Large or fatty meals
Lying down soon after eating
Smoking
Excessive alcohol use
Certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, some asthma drugs)
Signs and Symptoms
Heartburn (burning chest pain)
Chest discomfort after eating
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Sour or acidic taste in the mouth
Regurgitation of stomach contents
Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
Persistent cough
Feeling of a lump in the throat
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Reflux Esophagitis &?
Dr. Nguyen uses a comprehensive, step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptom history, eating habits, lifestyle factors and any risk factors for acid reflux or esophageal irritation.
Upper Endoscopy
This procedure lets him directly inspect the lining of your esophagus and stomach, and take small biopsies to check for inflammation, ulcers or Barrett's changes.
Esophageal pH Monitoring
A thin probe records acid exposure in your esophagus over 24-48 hours to pinpoint the frequency and severity of reflux episodes.
Esophageal Manometry
This test measures the strength and coordination of your esophageal muscles and assesses how well the lower esophageal sphincter prevents acid backflow.
Additional Testing (if needed)
In certain cases, Dr. Nguyen may recommend impedance monitoring to detect non-acid reflux or imaging studies to evaluate anatomical factors contributing to your symptoms.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for reflux esophagitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Personalized guidance on meal timing and portion sizes to reduce acid reflux
Recommendations to avoid spicy, greasy, and acidic foods
Advice on raising the head of the bed and weight management
2. Medications
Antacids for fast relief of heartburn symptoms
H2 blockers to decrease stomach acid production
Proton pump inhibitors for stronger, long-lasting acid suppression
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic mucosal resection to remove damaged esophageal tissue
Radiofrequency therapy to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter
Laparoscopic fundoplication for severe or refractory reflux 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 the ICD-10 code for reflux esophagitis?
K21.0 is the correct code for acid-related inflammation in the esophagus.
Can a hiatal hernia cause reflux?
Yes. It can make acid flow back into the esophagus more easily.
How soon will I feel better?
Most people feel better within two to four weeks of starting treatment.
Are reflux medications safe for long-term use?
Yes. When used under a doctor's care, these medicines are safe. Dr. Nguyen will monitor your progress.
Is surgery always required?
No. Surgery is only needed when other treatments do not work.
Can reflux esophagitis return?
Yes. But healthy habits and regular follow-up care can help prevent it.
Is reflux esophagitis linked to cancer?
Ongoing irritation can raise the risk of Barrett's esophagus. This condition can increase cancer risk. Early care lowers this chance.
