Your Inspira Health gastroenterologist may recommend a 24-hour esophageal pH test to look for symptoms of (GERD)
If you suffer from heartburn and acid reflux, your Inspira physician may recommend a 24-hour esophageal pH test to evaluate you for GERD.
A 24-hour esophageal pH test measures acid and non-acid reflux in the esophagus, which can be signs of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD occurs when the valve between the stomach and the esophagus, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, does not close properly and contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus.
Inspira’s Approach to 24-hour Esophageal pH Tests
A 24-hour esophageal pH test evaluates symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn and regurgitation, that do not respond to treatment with medications. It may also help identify whether atypical symptoms, such as chest pain, coughing, wheezing, hoarseness or sore throat, are due to GERD or another health condition. Occasionally, this test can be used to monitor the effectiveness of medications used to treat GERD. The test is often used as part of a pre-operative evaluation before anti-reflux surgery.
At the start of a 24-hour esophageal pH test, a technician will place a thin, flexible probe into the esophagus that will stay there for 24 hours while acid content is being measured. This information is transmitted to a small recorder that the patient wears on a belt.
After 24 hours, the probe will be removed. You’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss test results with your doctor.
From common gastrointestinal symptoms to rare conditions, Inspira Gastroenterology and Digestive Health providers help to diagnose and treat a wide range of issues.
