Esophageal pH monitoring

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Esophageal pH monitoring

Definition:

Esophageal pH monitoring is a test that measures how often and for how long stomach acid enters the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach).

Alternative Names:
pH monitoring - esophageal; Esophageal acidity test
How the test is performed:

A thin tube is passed through your nose or mouth to your stomach, then withdrawn back into your esophagus. The tube is attached to a monitor that measures the level of acidity in your esophagus.

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You will wear this monitor on a strap and will be asked to keep a diary of your symptoms and activity over the next 24 hours. The next day you will return and the tube will be removed. The information from the monitor will be compared to the diary you provide.

Infants and children will most likely remain in the hospital for the esophageal pH monitoring.

How to prepare for the test:

Your health care provider will ask you to fast and avoid smoking after midnight before the test.

Some drugs may alter the test results, and your health care provider may ask you to withhold those substances for 24 hours before the test. These substances may include:

Antacids
Anticholinergics
Cholinergics
Adrenergic blockers
Alcohol
Corticosteroids
H2 blockers

Do not discontinue any medication unless advised to do so by your health care provider.

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

You may experience a brief gagging sensation as the catheter is passed through your throat.

Why the test is performed:

Esophageal pH monitoring is used to assess how much stomach acid is entering the esophagus and how well it is cleared. In infants, this test is usually used to evaluate the absence or presence of GERD and associated excessive crying or other problems.