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Dr. Amjad Awan, MD

Services · GERD & Barrett's

GERD & Barrett's Esophagus Treatment in Denton, TX

Lasting relief from chronic acid reflux and careful monitoring of Barrett’s esophagus, guided by a gastroenterologist with 25 years of experience.

Patient with acid reflux and heartburn symptoms
Balanced meal for managing acid reflux

Understanding GERD

More Than Occasional Heartburn

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus. Reflux symptoms that occur two or more times a week, or that disrupt your daily life, may be a sign of GERD.

Over time, chronic reflux can damage the esophagus. In some people, it leads to Barrett’s esophagus, a change in the esophageal lining that increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Early evaluation helps protect your long-term health.

Heartburn or a burning feeling in the chest
Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
Chronic cough, hoarseness or sore throat
Difficulty swallowing or food sticking

Our Approach

How We Treat GERD and Barrett's Esophagus

Your plan is tailored to your symptoms, endoscopy findings and lifestyle.

Lifestyle Changes

Practical changes to meals, sleep position, weight and trigger foods that reduce reflux.

Medication Management

Appropriate use of PPIs and H2 blockers, with regular review of long-term therapy.

Upper Endoscopy

EGD to check for inflammation, strictures and Barrett's esophagus.

Barrett's Surveillance

Scheduled endoscopy with biopsies to detect cell changes early.

Endoscopic Therapy

Treatment options for Barrett's esophagus with abnormal cells, when appropriate.

Surgical Referral

Coordination with surgeons when anti-reflux procedures are the right choice.

How It Works

Your Path to Reflux Relief

From your first visit to long-term follow-up, we keep you informed at every step.

01

Consultation

Dr. Awan reviews your symptoms, medications and health history.

02

Evaluation

An upper endoscopy or other tests may be recommended to assess your esophagus.

03

Treatment Plan

You receive a personalized plan combining lifestyle changes and medication.

04

Follow-Up

Regular check-ins and surveillance when needed to keep reflux under control.

Acid Reflux Care in Denton

When to See a GI Specialist for Reflux

Many people manage occasional heartburn with over-the-counter antacids. But frequent reflux should be evaluated by a gastroenterologist, especially if you have relied on acid reducers for months or years.

Warning Signs That Need Prompt Attention

See a doctor promptly if you have difficulty swallowing, vomiting, black or bloody stools, anemia or unintended weight loss along with reflux. Chest pain should always be evaluated right away. Call 911 for severe or sudden chest pain.

Who Is at Risk for Barrett’s Esophagus?

Risk is higher in people with long-standing GERD, especially men over 50, people who are white, those with obesity or a history of smoking, and those with a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer. Screening may be recommended for people with multiple risk factors.

Everyday Tips to Reduce Reflux

Eat smaller meals, avoid eating two to three hours before bedtime, raise the head of your bed, limit alcohol and your personal trigger foods, and stop smoking. These steps can make a meaningful difference alongside medical treatment.

FAQ

GERD & Barrett's FAQs

Heartburn is a symptom. GERD is a chronic condition in which reflux happens frequently, usually two or more times a week, or causes complications.

No. Barrett’s esophagus is a change in the lining of the esophagus. It slightly increases the risk of esophageal cancer, which is why regular surveillance is important.

An endoscopy may be recommended if you have long-standing reflux, symptoms that do not respond to medication, trouble swallowing or other warning signs.

Many people control GERD very well with lifestyle changes and medication. Some patients benefit from endoscopic or surgical treatment.

More GI Services

Explore Our Other Services

Colonoscopy & Colon Cancer Screening

Find and remove precancerous polyps early with the gold-standard screening exam.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Evaluate heartburn, ulcers, bleeding and trouble swallowing.

ERCP

Treat bile duct stones, blockages and pancreatic duct problems without open surgery.

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

High-detail imaging of the pancreas, bile ducts and GI wall.

Digestive Disease Consultations

Expert evaluation of IBS, IBD, celiac disease, liver disease and more.

Get Relief from Acid Reflux

Talk with a Denton gastroenterologist about GERD and Barrett’s esophagus. Call our office today.