Acid Reflux - How To Spot The Warning Signs

While we are aware of the typical symptoms of acid reflux disease, a doctor may conduct various diagnostic tests to rule out any organic cause of your acid reflux problem.   Typically, if the problem persists after lifestyle and diet changes, the doctor may suggest one of the several procedures enumerated below to find out the actual cause.

These procedures are basically invasive procedures, in that they involve inserting tubes into your food pipe, and observing, obtaining and analyzing your data over a fixed period of time.

The Cleveland Clinic Foundation recommends the 24 hour Esophageal Ph test or the 48 hour Bravo Esophageal Ph test. A tube is inserted down, going though your nose and ending up near the Esophageal Sphincter muscle, the main problem in Acid Reflux.

A thin, small tube with an acid sensing device on the tip is gently passed through your nose, down the esophagus ("food tube"), and positioned about 2 inches above the lower esophageal sphincter. The tube is attached  to the side of your face with clear tape. The end of the tube exiting from your nose is attached to a portable recorder that is worn on your belt or over your shoulder. The recorder has several buttons on it that you press to mark certain observations.

You then follow certain food and medication restrictions prior to testing. During the test which lasts 24 hours, you avoid showers but record mealtimes and foods as well as resting times. Certain symptoms can be recorded on the recorder by pressing the appropriate buttons. A nurse will remove the recorder at the end of the time and the information is downloaded into a computer for a doctor to review and begin your treatment.

An easier test time wise is the Esophageal Manometry Test where a tiny, pressure-sensitive tube is inserted through the nose or mouth into your esophagus. This will measure muscle contractions when you swallow. This will tell the doctors how well the muscles are aiding in digestion.

Endoscopies, X-rays, are  all procedures that minutely find out if you have an existing obstruction  that hampers the proper digestion of food, by observing your insides through a lighted scope.

If it is then determined that there are no major problems such as a narrow food pipe or scarring or a growth that shouldn't be there, your Acid Reflux can be treated with lifestyle changes and medications that will help relieve the symptoms.