Acid Reflux:
- Why we get acid reflux
- Symptoms
- Complications of acid reflux
- Diagnosis
- Non-surgical treatments
- Surgery
- Life after surgery
The diagnosis of acid reflux is often made following a consultation with a gastroenterologist or surgeon from the history alone. Confirmation of the diagnosis may involve the following tests:
- OGD
- Manometry
- pH studies
- Trial of medication
An OGD (oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy) is the examination of the upper part of the intestinal tract.
A flexible, steerable, tube with a camera at the end is inserted via the mouth to examine the gullet and stomach.
This is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.
Signs of inflammation from acid reflux such as those seen in the picture may be noted and biopsied for examination.
A hiatus hernia or other abnormalities such as ulcers or polyps are sought and noted.
Biopsies of any suspicious areas may be taken at the same time to aid diagnosis.
Manomety is a specialist investigation in which the pressure within the lower oesophageal sphincter and the force and completeness of the oesophageal contractions may be measured.
This is an important investigation to determine the suitability for surgery and detect any foreseeable complications.
pH studies are another specialist investigation.
The patient is fitted with a small pH probe and a recording device which records the number and duration of acidic episodes within the oesophagus.
The recording device is fitted with a button to allow the patient to record their symptoms, allowing a correlation to be drawn.
A trial of powerful acid suppressing medication may be used to aid the diagnosis.
If the medication abolishes the symptoms then the diagnosis of acid reflux may be made.