Do you have frequent indigestion or a burning sensation in the center of your chest?- Do you regularly get sour or bitter-tasting fluids in your throat or mouth?
- Do you avoid lying flat or bending over to prevent acid from backing up into your throat?
If you answered, “yes” to any of these questions, you might have chronic (more than twice per week) heartburn or GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease). Frequent or chronic heartburn may be associated with more serious medical problems such as difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia), narrowing of the esophagus (strictures), and Barrett’s esophagus. Barrett’s esophagus is precursor for esophageal cancer.
Ambulatory acid pH testing is the most definitive study for the diagnosis and staging of GERD because it measures frequency and amount of acid reflux into esophagus. As a result, the most appropriate treatment can be selected for you.
How it Works?
After administering intravenous sedation, Dr. Darido will first perform an upper endoscopy. He then places a Bravo capsule into your esophagus using a delivery device. The test involves a miniature pH capsule, approximately the size of a gelcap, which is temporarily attached to the wall of your esophagus.
Throughout the test period, the Bravo pH capsule will measure the pH in the esophagus and wirelessly transmit this information to a small recorder worn on your belt or waistband just like a mobile phone.
Once the test has been completed, you will need to return the recorder to Hospital and test data will then be uploaded to a computer. Dr. Darido will analyze the information to diagnose and stage your acid reflux.