If you are looking for ways to find out if your symptoms are an indication of GERD or Acid Reflux, it helps to familiarize yourself with the various tests that your doctor or gastro-enterologist might give to you.
In addition to an examination and complete medical history, procedures for the diagnosis of GERD may include any or a combination of the following: 1.
Serie Gastrointestinal (GI) Top (also called barium swallow.
) - a diagnostic test that examines the organs of the upper digestive system: esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first section of small intestine).
A fluid called barium is used because it is a metallic chemical (chalky liquid) used to coat the inside of organs so that they appear in x-rays.
The x-rays are then taken to evaluate the digestive organs.
2.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (Also called EGD or upper endoscopy.
) - an EGD (upper endoscopy) is a procedure that allows the physician to look inside the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
A tube with light, thin and flexible, called an endoscope is passed through the mouth and throat, and then into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
The endoscope allows the physician to see within this area of the body, so as to insert instruments through the endoscope to take samples of tissue for biopsy (if necessary).
3.
Bernstein test - a test to help confirm if the symptoms are indeed a result from acid in the esophagus.
The test is performed by dripping a mild acid through a tube placed in the esophagus.
4.
Esophageal manometry - this test helps determine the strength of the muscles of the esophagus.
It is useful in evaluating gastroesophageal reflux and anomalies related to swallowing.
A small tube is inserted into the nose, and then passed into the throat and finally into the esophagus.
Then it measures the pressure the esophageal muscles produce at rest.
5.
pH monitoring - measures the acidity within the esophagus.
It is helpful in evaluating Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.
A thin plastic tube is placed into a nostril, guided down the throat and then into the esophagus.
The tube stops just above the lower esophageal sphincter, which is the connection between the esophagus and stomach.
At the end of the tube inside the esophagus is a sensor that measures pH, or acidity.
The other end of the tube outside the body is connected to a monitor that records the pH levels for a period of 12 to 24 hours.
During the study, normal activity is encouraged, as well as keeping a diary of symptoms experienced, or activity that might be suspicious for reflux, such as gagging or coughing.
The pH readings are evaluated and compared with the patient's activity during that period.