How Is GERD Diagnosed?
Gatroesophageal reflux disease is a chronic digestive disorder characterized by regular bouts of acid reflux. GERD causes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the valve between the esophagus and the stomach that opens to allow food and liquid to pass through and closes to keep stomach acid from rising back up, to weaken. A weakened LES will allow stomach acid to wash back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, sore throat, and coughing.
Diagnosing GERD and then subsequently treating the condition can sometimes be difficult, which is why we’ve put together this guide that describes how the process works.
How is GERD diagnosed?
GERD is regularly diagnosed in a series of steps we will outline for you below, which includes pre-diagnosis and post-diagnosis as well.
Step 1: Tracking Symptoms
One of the best ways to diagnose GERD before it presents complications is to track your symptoms in a food diary. GERD symptoms vary but usually involve chronic acid reflux, heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and the sensation of a lump in your throat.
Step 2: Seeing a Reflux Specialist
The next crucial step is to make an initial consultation appointment with a reflux specialist to discuss your symptoms and conduct an examination. They’ll be able to tell you whether they think your symptoms are situational or if they may be caused by an underlying chronic condition like GERD.
Step 3: Diagnosing GERD
Next, depending on the results of your examination, your reflux specialist will schedule a time to perform additional diagnostic tests to confirm his or her initial GERD diagnosis. To diagnose GERD, your doctor may recommend one of the following tests.
Upper endoscopy. Your doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope down your throat, to examine the inside of your esophagus and stomach with the small camera on the tip. An endoscopy can help to identify inflammation of the esophagus or other complications.
Ambulatory acid (pH) probe test. A monitor is placed in your esophagus to identify when, and for how long, stomach acid rises into it.
Esophageal manometry. This test measures the rhythm of muscle contractions in your esophagus when you swallow.
X-ray of your upper digestive system. Your doctor may take X-rays are after you ingest a chalky substance that coats the digestive tract, allowing your radiologist to view your esophagus, stomach and upper intestine.
Step 4: Prescribing a Treatment Plan
Finally, once your GERD diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor will work with you to develop a tailored GERD treatment plan based on your individual needs. GERD treatment can involve lifestyle and diet changes, or noninvasive surgery for patients looking to fully correct their GERD and eradicate symptoms long-term.
If you suspect you may be suffering from GERD, schedule your consultation with the reflux specialists at Tampa Bay Reflux Center and get on your way to alleviating your GERD symptoms today!