Four Procedures Used To Diagnose GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back from your stomach up into your esophagus, resulting in a variety of unpleasant symptoms including chronic acid reflux and heartburn. The condition is caused by a weakened lower esophageal sphincter - the muscle that opens and closes to allow food into the stomach and is supposed to act as a barrier to prevent stomach acid from splashing back up into the esophagus. In patients with GERD, the LES doesn’t close properly, which allows the backflow of acid and results in painful symptoms.
If you or your doctor suspect you might have Gastroesophageal reflux disease , the first step to treating your condition is to confirm a diagnosis. There are a few different tests your reflux specialist may use to do this, and which one they use may vary based on your specific needs. Below, we’ll take a look at four of the most commonly used tests to diagnose GERD, all of which are offered at Tampa Bay Reflux Center.
Upper Endoscopy
During this procedure, your doctor or colorectal specialist will insert a flexible tube equipped with a camera on one end into your throat to study the inside of your esophagus and stomach. The endoscopy can detect any damage or inflammation in the esophagus. Another important thing looked for during an endoscopy is Barrett’s esophagus, a change in the lining of the esophagus that has been connected to an increased cancer risk.
pH Monitoring
This method is used to detect and measure stomach acid in the esophagus. Your doctor will insert a device into your esophagus, which is then left there for around 24 hours to measure the amount of acid in your esophagus. The monitor connects to a small, wearable computer the measures the stomach acid.
Esophageal Manometry
This test measures the rhythmic muscle contractions in your esophagus when you swallow. An endoscopic tool is inserted into the esophagus and then your doctor will ask you to swallow various liquids over a few minutes to view the function of your lower esophageal sphincter muscle and your overall swallowing ability.
Barium Swallow
During this test for GERD, you will be asked to swallow a barium pill or liquid containing barium. The barium lets doctors take X-rays of your esophagus, the images of which can help diagnose a narrowing of the esophagus that may interfere with swallowing. The barium will show up on an x-ray to help paint a better picture of what is going on in the esophagus.
Your GERD doctor will work with you to decide which diagnostic method is right for you based on your symptoms and unique needs. Sometimes additional tests may be required. Schedule an appointment with the GERD specialists at Tampa Bay Reflux today for more information!