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Acid Reflux
Discover expert acid reflux care in Houston with Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs. From personalized diagnosis and lifestyle guidance to advanced endoscopic and surgical treatments, Dr. Scott offers comprehensive, compassionate management of acid reflux and GERD. Regain comfort and confidence today.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Eating large meals or eating late at night
Trigger foods (citrus, chocolate, spicy or fried foods, caffeine)
Obesity or rapid weight gain
Smoking or heavy alcohol use
Hiatal hernia
Pregnancy
Signs and Symptoms
Burning pain in the chest or throat (heartburn)
Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
Persistent cough
Hoarseness or frequent throat clearing
Difficulty swallowing
Waking at night with coughing or a sour taste
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your weight‐loss timeline, epigastric pain characteristics (onset, location, triggers), dietary habits, medication use, travel history and other risk factors.
Laboratory Tests
CBC and metabolic panel to check for anemia, electrolyte imbalances and organ function.
Thyroid function tests and blood sugar levels to rule out endocrine causes.
Celiac serologies and inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) for malabsorption or inflammation.
Stool studies (calprotectin, ova & parasites, fat quantification) to assess for infection or malabsorption.
Imaging and Endoscopic Evaluation
Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan to look for masses, organ enlargement or lymphadenopathy.
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to inspect the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for ulcers, gastritis, celiac changes or tumors-especially important for persistent epigastric pain.
Advanced Diagnostics (if needed)
If initial tests are inconclusive, he may recommend capsule endoscopy, small‐bowel biopsy or motility studies to detect subtle mucosal disease, strictures or dysmotility.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for acid reflux.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eating smaller, more frequent meals to reduce stomach pressure
Waiting 2-3 hours before lying down after eating
Elevating the head of the bed by 6-8 inches to prevent nighttime reflux
Identifying and avoiding personal trigger foods (citrus, chocolate, spicy or fried foods, caffeine)
Supporting weight loss through balanced nutrition and activity
Quitting smoking and cutting back on alcohol intake
2. Medications
Over-the-counter antacids for rapid symptom relief
H2 blockers (e.g., ranitidine) to decrease acid production
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole) for long-term acid control
Customized prescription plans based on symptom severity and test results
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic fundoplication to reinforce the valve between the stomach and esophagus
LINX device insertion, a magnetic ring that helps prevent reflux
Laparoscopic surgical options for severe or refractory GERD 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 acid reflux?
The code is K21.9, used for reflux without esophagitis.
How soon will I feel better with diet changes?
Most people feel better within 1 to 2 weeks by avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller meals.
Can acid reflux be dangerous during sleep?
Serious harm is rare, but frequent nighttime reflux can damage the esophagus. Seek help if you wake choking or with chest pain.
Are GERD and acid reflux the same?
GERD is the long-term form of acid reflux. It involves frequent symptoms that affect daily life.
Which foods should I avoid with acid reflux?
Avoid citrus, tomatoes, peppermint, chocolate, spicy foods, fried items, and drinks with caffeine.
When should I see a doctor?
Schedule a visit if you have heartburn more than twice a week, symptoms that interrupt your sleep, or if over-the-counter meds aren't helping.
What tests confirm acid reflux?
Common tests include upper endoscopy, pH monitoring, and esophageal manometry.
