Diagnosing GERD typically begins with a detailed discussion between the patient and the specialist. This step focuses on exploring symptoms, their frequency, and any triggers patients may have noticed. A GERD specialist may ask about eating habits, the timing of symptoms, and lifestyle factors that could influence acid reflux. Here are the tools and tests that can help you:
What Are the First Steps?
Lifestyle adjustments may be recommended early on. These may include changing your diet or raising your head while sleeping. Such changes can help manage symptoms in the short term and also provide doctors with better insight into how well potential treatments might work.
How Is Reflux Measured?
One key method for diagnosing acid reflux is pH monitoring. This test measures the acid levels in the esophagus to see if stomach acid frequently backs up. It can be done using a thin tube inserted through the nose into the esophagus or with a small, temporary device placed directly in the esophagus. The results help determine if reflux episodes align with a patient’s symptoms, making diagnosis easier.
What Does Endoscopy Do?
During an endoscopy, a GERD specialist uses a thin tube with a camera to look for damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid. This simple and effective procedure allows specialists to directly examine the tissues and spot signs of inflammation, ulcers, or erosion. It is helpful for detecting complications, such as when the cells in the esophagus start to change.
What If Symptoms Persist?
When acid reflux symptoms don’t improve with medications or lifestyle changes, doctors may recommend advanced treatments. These treatments aim to enhance the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle where the esophagus meets the stomach. A weak LES can allow stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort.
One surgical option is fundoplication. In this procedure, the top of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to strengthen the barrier and prevent acid reflux. This surgery is performed through small incisions.
Another option is LINX. This minimally invasive job involves implanting a ring of magnetic beads around the LES. The device helps the throat close properly when swallowing, which reduces acid reflux if other treatments haven’t been successful.
What Lifestyle Factors Matter?
Specialists may ask about lifestyle choices that can help manage reflux. Patients may be told to adjust their diet, meal timing, and portion sizes. Factors that can worsen symptoms include lying down too soon after eating and eating spicy foods.
Keeping a food and symptom diary may be recommended. This helps patients identify patterns between their eating habits and discomfort. While tracking lifestyle factors isn’t a diagnosis, it provides useful insights for treatment and helps patients discover their own triggers.
Find a GERD Specialist
By combining these tools with patient history, specialists develop tailored treatment plans. For cases involving mild symptoms, options like dietary changes or medication work well. More persistent cases may require jobs to strengthen the LES and restore normal function. GERD specialists aim to provide both effective diagnostics and solutions. By using a mix of advanced testing, proactive care, and tailored treatments, a professional can help control acid reflux.
