How to Test for Acid Reflux

Heartburn, or acid indigestion, is a burning sensation in the chest and throat. When heartburn occurs frequently it can become more than an annoyance, and for some people it can have serious consequences, including esophagitis and bronchitis.

Chronic heartburn is called acid reflux disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acid reflux occurs when the contents of your stomach "reflux" or back up to the esophagus and throat. The stomach contents are highly acidic and irritate the linings of your esophagus and throat, thereby producing the burning sensation.

The esophagus is a muscular tube that moves food from the mouth to the stomach. Normally a part of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), stays closed to prevent food from escaping the stomach. Acid reflux occurs when the LES does not close properly and allows the stomach contents to move up your esophagus.

If you suspect that you have acid reflux the following information may be helpful.

Things You'll Need

• Over-the-counter antacids
• Notebook

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Instructions

• 1

  Try over-the-counter antacids for relief of the acid indigestion. Your pharmacist can recommend which product to take.

• 2

  Make an entry into your notebook of the day and time your symptoms began. Also write down the food you ate just before your noticed your symptoms. Note whether the antacid provided relief.

• 3

  See your primary care physician if you experience acid indigestion frequently or if your symptoms do not resolve completely. Bring your notebook to the office visit so your doctor can see what foods you eat and how long you have been having symptoms. Acid indigestion symptoms that occur at least twice a week on a regular basis is a diagnostic indicator of acid reflux disease.

• 4

  Your doctor may also recommend that you try a change in lifestyle to determine if you have acid reflux. You may be advised to try losing weight, cut down or quit smoking and stop eating certain foods. Foods that trigger acid reflux include chocolate, fatty foods, fried foods, spicy foods, caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, garlic, onions, salsa, chili, pizza, citrus fruits and peppermint.

• 5

  Your doctor may refer you to a specialist called a gastroenterologist if your symptoms persist for more than four weeks. Your specialist may recommend special diagnostic tests that include barium swallow X-rays, an upper GI endoscopy, esophageal manometry or 24-hour pH probe study.