GERD Tests

Do you suffer from frequent heartburn of acid reflux? Have you been unable to control your symptoms with antacids or simple lifestyle changes? You may be suffering from GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. In many cases, your doctor will be able to diagnose you with GERD and recommend treatment with a physical exam and detailed medical history. Your doctor may also order tests to diagnose GERD in an effort to determine the cause and severity of your symptoms.

Two common GERD tests

Barium swallow or upper GI Series: Essentially, this is an X-ray of the top half of your digestive system, including your esophagus, stomach and upper intestine. You’ll be asked to drink chalky liquid and then X-ray images will be taken.

Upper endoscopy: An endoscope is a flexible tube, about the thickness of a finger, that has a tiny camera and light mounted on the tip. During an upper endoscopy, you’ll lay on your left side on an exam table while the tube is inserted into your mouth, down your throat, and into your stomach. This procedure does not usually cause any pain or discomfort and it allows your doctor to get a clear picture of the inside of your digestive system.