GERD is a persistent acid reflux disorder. Heartburn, caused by stomach acid rising into the esophagus, is the predominant symptom of GERD. Regurgitation, where stomach contents enter the mouth, is another common symptom.
You can get an inside look at your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract with a technique called an endoscopy. It can take biopsies and perform treatments. GERD can be diagnosed and, less frequently, treated through an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. We will discuss their uses and hazards below. Charlotte gerd can help!
GERD upper endoscopy
GERD can cause frequent heartburn or regurgitation. This increases the likelihood that a doctor may detect GERD after reading your medical records and conducting a physical exam. If so, they will prescribe a PPI. PPIs reduce stomach acid to treat GERD. PPI medication confirms GERD without further testing.
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and other diagnostic procedures may be recommended if you experience unusual or concerning symptoms. Your doctor can inspect your upper GI tract lining with an esophagogastroduodenoscopy or upper GI endoscopy. Esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. An endoscopy helps your doctor diagnose GERD, its consequences, or other health issues. Biopsies may be taken during the procedure.
Other GERD diagnostic tests
Other tests can diagnose GERD and its consequences besides an upper GI endoscopy. These are:
- Esophageal pH monitoring ambulatory. This test tracks pH variations in your esophagus using a catheter or capsule. This might show how nutrition and sleep affect your symptoms.
- Esophageal manometry. Esophageal manometry can detect issues. It measures esophageal muscle contractions during swallowing. It can assess LES function.
- Barium swallow. Barium swallows identify hiatal hernias and esophageal narrowing. Barium, a gritty material, will be swallowed to line the upper digestive tract. These tissues will be examined with X-rays.
GERD endoscopy?
Doctors treat GERD with drugs and lifestyle adjustments. PPIs and H2-receptor blockers are medications.
Your doctor may propose surgery if:
- Lifestyle modifications and medications do not help GERD symptoms.
- GERD drugs are harmful.
- You want to discontinue GERD meds permanently.
- Linx and fundoplication are the most common GERD operations.
- Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) is a revolutionary endoscopy-based GERD surgery.
GERD upper endoscopy prep
- It is important to get ready for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in the event that your doctor recommends one to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease.
- Consult your doctor. Inform your doctor of any drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking, as well as any allergies to these substances.
- Change or stop drugs. Blood thinners, diabetic medicines, aspirin, and NSAIDs may be temporarily adjusted or stopped by your doctor before your treatment.
- Fast.
- Taking medicines with a sip of water is usually okay.
- Get a ride. Endoscopies require sedation, so you can not drive afterward. Get help getting home following your operation.
