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This is one of the many approaches used in finding abnormality in the digestive system in patients who have the following symptoms: burning sensation around the pit of the stomach or the chest, chest pain, chronic cough, chronic asthma that has been unresponsive to past treatment, chronic hoarseness, chronic sore throat, chronic throat pain, and/or chronic sinusitis.
The main purpose of examining the pH or the acidity level in the esophagus is that in can indicate whether the cause is due to the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus or not. The exam can help physicians provide proper treatment. In some cases, the exam is conducted as a follow up check after the patient started the medication.
Preparing for the exam:
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Patient must stop taking all tablet antacid at least 1 week before the exam. If the symptoms are severe, occasional intake of Alum milk is acceptable. |
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If patient is taking medication that has an effect on the movement of the esophagus, such as Domperidone Cisapride, Tegaserod, should stop taking the medication at least 3 days prior to the exam. |
| 3. |
If patient is taking certain psychiatric medication, especially the ones for depressive disorder should consult your physician whether to stop taking the medicine or not. |
On the day of the exam:
Patient must refrain from eating and drinking at least 6 hours prior to the exam.
During the exam: The physician will insert a small cord (about 1 mm in diameter) through your nose and into the esophagus, and then leave it there for 18 - 24 hours. This cord is attached to a small computer which will measure the pH or acidity level inside your esophagus throughout the exam duration. The physician will analyze the results and provide appropriate treatment. |
