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Esophagitis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers expert care for esophagitis, a swelling or irritation of the esophagus. With over 15 years' experience, he diagnoses causes-like acid reflux or allergies-and provides individualized treatment plans to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
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) or frequent acid reflux
Allergic reaction in eosinophilic esophagitis (food allergens)
Certain medications (NSAIDs, antibiotics) that can irritate the lining
Infections (candida, herpes) especially in immunocompromised patients
Smoking, heavy alcohol use, or obesity with chronic heartburn
Food allergies or intolerances leading to repeated irritation
Signs and Symptoms
Burning pain in the chest or upper abdomen (heartburn)
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or sensation of food sticking
Painful swallowing (odynophagia)
Hoarseness, sore throat, or chronic cough-often worse at night
Bitter or sour taste in the mouth from regurgitated acid
Unintended weight loss in severe or long-standing cases
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your epigastric pain and swallowing symptoms, heartburn or reflux history, medication use, food allergies, lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, weight) and any prior treatments.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Dr. Scott inspects the esophagus, stomach and duodenum with a camera to identify inflammation, erosions, strictures or rings. He takes targeted biopsies to differentiate reflux-related, eosinophilic or infectious esophagitis.
Esophageal pH Monitoring
An ambulatory pH probe measures acid exposure over 24 hours, correlating reflux events with your pain or burning sensations.
Esophageal Manometry
High-resolution manometry evaluates muscle contractions and sphincter function, ruling out motility disorders like achalasia or diffuse esophageal spasm.
Barium Swallow Study
A contrast X-ray detects structural abnormalities (strictures, rings) and assesses how food moves through the esophagus.
Allergy Testing (for EoE)
If eosinophilic esophagitis is suspected, skin or blood tests help identify trigger foods and guide an elimination diet.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for esophagitis.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Eat smaller, more frequent meals to minimize reflux
Avoid spicy, greasy, or highly acidic foods
Remain upright for at least two hours after eating
Raise the head of your bed to reduce nighttime symptoms
Implement an elimination diet when food allergies are suspected
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid
H2-receptor blockers for mild to moderate reflux control
Swallowed corticosteroids to calm allergic or eosinophilic inflammation
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Upper endoscopy for direct visualization and biopsy
Esophageal dilation to relieve strictures and improve swallowing
Radiofrequency therapy for chronic reflux management
Botox injections in select cases of esophageal motility disorders
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 is the ICD-10 code for esophagitis?
The code is K20.9 for general esophagitis and K20.0 for eosinophilic esophagitis.
How long does healing take?
Mild cases often heal in a few weeks, while more severe types may take several months with consistent treatment.
Can diet alone help eosinophilic esophagitis?
Some patients improve significantly with diet changes, but others also need medication to control inflammation.
Is it risky to leave esophagitis untreated?
Yes. Without proper care, it can lead to scarring, strictures, and long-term swallowing problems.
Will I need more than one procedure?
Sometimes. Patients with persistent inflammation or strictures may require repeat endoscopies or dilations.
Do you treat teens with this condition?
Yes. Dr. Scott treats teens and works with pediatric specialists when needed for younger children.
