What is pH Monitoring?
pH Monitoring is a test that measures and records the pH of the esophagus. pH monitoring is used to determine if a patient suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and to determine the future treatment for GERD.
What is Esophageal Reflux?
Esophageal Reflux is when the acids in the stomach move back to the
esophagus (up the food pipe). The esophageal sphincter opens to allow
food and liquid to pass into the stomach and then closes. When the
sphincter does not close completely, digestive juices can pass back
through into the esophagus. When reflux occurs frequently, the
esophagus can suffer permanent damage. The pH monitoring measures how
often the stomach refluxes and how much acid the juices contain. |
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Before Your pH Procedure
Patients will be given specific instructions to prepare for their scheduled colonoscopy. These instructions will include a special diet and specifics regarding medication leading up to the procedure. Also, you will be given specific restrictions on what and what not to do once the pH monitor procedure is complete.
During Your Procedure
A thin acid sensing tube will be placed through your nose and will be passed down until it reaches the the lower esophageal sphincter. The tube will be secured and the end exiting the nose will be connected to a portable recorder that marks certain events.
After Your Procedure
You should follow your usual daily routine for accurate monitoring recordings. Avoid lying down unless napping is part of your daily routine and until going to sleep at night. Record your symptoms when they occur (will be instructed to do so by physician). After the completion of the study, you may suffer from a mildly sore throat, but should only be temporary.
Reprinted and modified from The Cleveland Clinic