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24-Hour pH Measurement

Swallow Right, Diagnose Right: Unravel Esophageal Issues with Confidence.

How Is the Esophageal pH Test Performed?

During the esophageal pH test, a small probe is inserted through your nostril and positioned near the lower esophagus. This probe connects to a portable monitor that you wear on your belt or shoulder. The device features buttons that you press to log:

  • The onset of any symptoms
  • When you eat or lie down
What Should Patients Do During the Esophageal pH Test?

To ensure accurate results during the monitoring period, keep the following in mind:

  • Activity: Maintain your regular daily routine as much as possible. Avoid changing your activities significantly, as this may impact reflux events. Also, do not take a bath or shower, as the equipment should not get wet.

  • Eating: Consume your regular meals at usual times and include foods that may trigger your symptoms. It is essential to eat at least two meals a day to stimulate normal acid production. You can drink as much plain water as you like.

The 24-hour esophageal pH test is an outpatient procedure designed to measure the acidity levels (pH) in the esophagus over a 24-hour period. This test helps determine the cause of various symptoms, such as:

  • Heartburn: Especially in patients who have not responded to medical treatments and may be candidates for surgery.
  • Atypical GERD Symptoms: Symptoms like chest pain, chronic cough, and asthma that could be related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
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How is it done?

The 24-hour esophageal pH test involves inserting a small probe through your nostril and positioning it near the lower esophagus. This probe is connected to a portable monitoring device that you wear, typically on your belt or shoulder. Throughout the 24-hour period, the device measures the acidity levels in your esophagus as you go about your daily activities. You will be asked to press buttons on the device to log any symptoms experienced, as well as when you eat or lie down. It’s important to follow your normal routine to ensure accurate results. After the monitoring period, the probe is removed, and the data is analyzed to assess your esophageal acid levels.

FAQ

24-Hour pH Measurement

Our 24-Hour pH Monitoring FAQ section addresses common questions regarding the procedure, its purpose, preparation, and what to expect during and after the test. Whether you’re curious about the reasons for the test, how it is conducted, or how to prepare for it, this guide provides clear and concise information to help you feel informed and at ease. We aim to empower you with knowledge about the process and its significance in diagnosing esophageal conditions, ensuring you are well-prepared for your experience. 

The 24-hour pH test measures the acidity levels in the esophagus over a full day. It helps diagnose conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), identifies the cause of persistent heartburn, and evaluates atypical symptoms like chest pain or chronic cough.

Your doctor may provide specific instructions, but generally, you should avoid taking certain medications that can affect acid production and refrain from eating acidic or irritating foods for at least 24 hours before the test.

During the test, a small probe will be inserted through your nose into your esophagus. You will wear a portable monitor that records acidity levels. You’ll also need to press buttons on the device to log any symptoms, meals, and lying down, helping to correlate symptoms with acid levels.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the insertion of the probe, which may feel unusual but shouldn't be painful. Once in place, you should be able to go about your normal activities.

After 24 hours, the probe will be removed, and the collected data will be analyzed by your doctor. You’ll receive results that will help determine if you have acid reflux or other esophageal issues, and your doctor will discuss any necessary follow-up or treatment options.

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