What You Need To Know About Esophageal pH Monitoring

Esophageal pH monitoring is a test that helps measure the amount of stomach acid that enters the esophagus, which can lead to chest pain and discomfort. This test also helps measure other concerns, such as how long the acid stays in the esophagus. Here is what you need to know about Esophageal pH monitoring. 

Purpose of Esophageal pH Monitoring Test

If you’ve been experiencing very uncomfortable levels of chest pain, burn, and discomfort, this test can help find the solution. The pH test measures how much acid backs up into the esophagus, and is performed with a small thin, plastic tube that has a sensor attached to it. Before testing for this, your doctor will ask you about symptoms including nausea, chronic coughing, or abdominal pain.

During The pH Test

When it comes to the pH test, there are two types of monitors that help track levels of acid in the esophagus. These monitors are a catheter and a wireless capsule. Your throat is first sprayed with numbing medication to help ease the discomfort and any slight pain. The catheter is then inserted into your mouth or nose and down your esophagus.

For the wireless capsule, you swallow a disposable capsule, which then travels down into your stomach. It will wirelessly record the data found, which can include information such as what may be causing the acid reflux and how much of it can cause the issues. 

After The Test

After the test, your throat may feel a little sore, but sucking on hard candy may help soothe the discomfort and pain. Once the procedure is over you should no longer feel the sensor at all. The wireless capsule will cause no pain at all. Your doctor will follow up with you in a few days to share the data results and inform you of the findings.

Schedule an Appointment Today!

At Gramercy Park Digestive Disease Center, located in New York, NY, our main mission is to help provide comfort for those struggling with digestive diseases and conditions. We believe that everyone deserves to feel comfortable and free of pain, and with our state-of-the-art technology and equipment, we aim to do just that! Give us a call at 212-979-3237 to schedule an appointment. You can also visit us at www.gpddc.com for more information.