pH studies are often done with oesophageal manometry tests. pH studies are done in those patients with reflux to assess the severity of the disease.
Assessment can be done in two ways.
- A small tube with a device on the tip that senses acid is passed through your nose, down the oesophagus, and positioned about 4cm above the lower oesophageal sphincter. The tube is fastened to the side of your face with tape. The end of the tube that comes out your nose is attached to a portable recorder that is worn on your belt or over your shoulder. The recorder has several buttons on it that you will press to mark certain events. The tube will be in your nose for 48 hours. Prior to the test you will have to stop your anti-acid medication. During the test you will have to record certain events such as when you experience heartburn, when you are lying down and when you are eating. Once the tube is removed, the data is analysed and decision on further treatment is made
- Option 2 is pH monitoring with a BRAVO capsule. A small capsule is temporarily attached to the wall of the oesophagus during an upper GI endoscopy. The capsule measures pH levels in the oesophagus and transmits readings to a recorder worn on your belt. The recorder has several buttons on it that you will press to record symptoms of reflux. As for all pH studies you will have to stop your anti-acid medication 7 days prior to the test.