Exams and Tests

Your health care provider usually can diagnose reflux disease just by the symptoms you report.

• He or she will probably recommend lifestyle changes first and perhaps an over-the-counter antacid.
  
  
• If symptoms continue for more than 4 weeks despite this therapy, you may be referred to a gastroenterologist.

The gastroenterologist may perform an upper GI series.

• This is a special series of x-rays of the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the intestine.
  
  
• It is taken after you drink a contrast liquid that makes certain features show up better on the x-rays.
  
  
• This series is sometimes called a barium swallow for one type of contrast liquid that is used.
  
  
• This test gives less information than endoscopy but is sometimes ordered to rule out other conditions such as ulcers or blockage of the esophagus. Sometimes the upper GI series is skipped altogether.

The gastroenterologist may perform an upper GI endoscopy, also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD, a procedure that can be done at the doctor's office.

• You receive some sedation, then a flexible probe with a tiny camera on the end is passed down your throat.
  
  
• The camera allows the doctor to see damage to the esophagus. This way, he or she can see how severe the GERD is and rule out serious complications.
  
  
• Your esophagus may appear normal if you have mild GERD.
  
  
• This procedure allows the specialist to make diagnoses, assess damage, take biopsies if necessary, and even treat certain conditions on the spot.

Esophageal manometry is a test that measures the function of the lower esophageal sphincter and the motor function of the esophagus. A tube is passed down your throat until it reaches the esophagus. It is often performed along with 24-hour pH probe study.

In a 24-hour pH probe study, a thin tube is placed down into your esophagus for 24 hours. The tube monitors episodes of acid reflux over the day and while you sleep.

Viewer Comments & Reviews

GERD - Proton Pump Inhibitors

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

Heartburn symptoms caused by GERD are usually relieved by drugs called proton pump inhibitors (Prilosec, Prevacid, Aciphex, Protonix, Nexium, Zegerid); however, proton pump inhibitors sometimes do not work well. If your symptoms were not relieved by treatment with proton pump inhibitors, can you please describe your GERD symptoms that did not improve? If you have other treatments that have been effective, please comment on those.

Anonymously share your comment to help others.
See 5 Viewer Comments & Reviews

Submit Your Review