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Testing your Doctor can do to Diagnose Acid Reflux Disease

Many people assume that they have acid reflux disease, but they have self diagnosed it. When it is to the point where you are experiencing it often, you need to talk to your doctor. There are some different types of testing that your doctor can perform. Not only will you be able to find out if that is your problem, but you can also find out how severe it is.

An esophagram is very commonly done, and the technical name for this is Barium Swallow. This is a process that allows the doctor to see if you have any ulcers that have developed. They can also check to see if your esophagus passageway has gotten narrow compared to what it should be. This involves you drinking a solution that is orange in color and doesn't taste too bad. Then an X-Ray is done that shows the insides of the esophagus.

Another common test that can be performed is the esophageal manometry. This type of test is going to help with evaluating the functionality of the esophagus as well as the lower sphincter of it. Since acid is the cause of acid reflux disease, it is important for pH monitoring to be done. This is how your doctor will be able to adequately measure the amount of acid that is in the esophagus.

This procedure involves a device being placed into your esophagus. It will remain there for a period of 48 hours. It will measure the amount of acid that is in there over that period of time. This is important due to the fact that acid levels are going to increase and decrease throughout the day.

An endoscopy involves checking to see if you have serious problems with your stomach or your esophagus. This test is conducted by placing a tube that is lit down the throat. The doctor will use an antiseptic spray so that the back of the throat is numb before doing this. The doctor may also remove a sample of tissue from the esophagus during this procedure. That is a biopsy and it can help to identify any abnormalities in the esophagus.