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Esophageal Ulcer
Esophageal ulcers are painful sores in the esophagus lining that can cause bleeding, burning, and swallowing difficulties. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott combines advanced diagnostics, targeted treatments, and personalized lifestyle recommendations to promote healing and restore lasting patient comfort.
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
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Helicobacter pylori infection
Frequent use of NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
Prolonged stress or weakened immune system
Chest radiation therapy
Signs and Symptoms
Burning or aching chest pain
Pain or discomfort when swallowing
Difficulty swallowing solids or liquids
Nausea or episodes of vomiting
Black, tarry, or bloody stools
Unintentional weight loss
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Esophageal Ulcer
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He evaluates symptoms such as burning chest pain, painful swallowing, regurgitation, and history of acid reflux, pill-induced injury, or immune suppression. A focused physical exam helps assess signs of anemia or complications.
Blood Tests
Includes a complete blood count to check for anemia or signs of bleeding, inflammatory markers if infection is suspected, and nutritional screening if weight loss is present.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
This is the primary diagnostic tool. Dr. Scott uses a flexible scope to inspect the esophagus, directly identifying ulcerations, irritation, and any surrounding inflammation or narrowing.
Biopsy
If ulcers are observed, he may take small tissue samples to check for infection (e.g., HSV, CMV), malignancy, or eosinophilic esophagitis, especially in patients with risk factors or non-healing ulcers.
pH Monitoring (if GERD suspected)
24-hour pH testing may be used to confirm chronic acid reflux as the underlying cause of esophageal damage in recurring or treatment-resistant cases.
Additional Imaging (if needed)
Barium swallow X-ray to detect strictures, perforation risk, or associated motility issues
Chest CT scan in rare cases to assess for complications or infection spreading beyond the esophagus
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for esophageal ulcers.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce esophageal irritation
Avoid spicy, acidic, and carbonated foods and beverages
Stay upright for at least 30 minutes after eating
Raise the head of your bed by several inches to prevent nighttime reflux
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake to promote healing
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to significantly reduce stomach acid production
Hâ‚‚ blockers to help control acid levels and ease symptoms
Antibiotics for Helicobacter pylori eradication when infection is present
Coating agents such as sucralfate to protect the ulcerated lining
3. Advanced Treatments
Endoscopic therapy to stop active bleeding or directly treat the ulcer
Balloon dilation for esophageal narrowing caused by scar tissue
Radiofrequency ablation in select cases to remove damaged tissue
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main symptoms of an esophageal ulcer?
Chest pain, painful swallowing, nausea, and black or bloody stools are common.
How long does healing take?
Most ulcers heal within 4 to 8 weeks when treated properly.
Can esophageal ulcers become cancer?
It is rare. Dr. Scott may take a biopsy to make sure there are no signs of cancer.
What is the ICD-10 code for this condition?
The code is K20.3 for esophageal ulcer.
Will diet alone cure it?
Diet helps, but medication is often needed to heal the ulcer fully.
Is an endoscopy a safe test?
Yes. It is a low-risk procedure used to view and sometimes treat the ulcer.
Should I be tested for H. pylori?
Yes, if infection is suspected, Dr. Scott will order tests to confirm.
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