Acid Reflux

The diagnosis of acid reflux

Diagnosis is usually made based on a combination of symptoms and medical tests. Your healthcare provider will start by taking a detailed medical history and performing a physical exam. They may also order one or more of the following tests:

• Upper endoscopy: a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus to look for inflammation, irritation, or damage to the lining.
• Esophageal pH monitoring: measures the amount of acid in the esophagus over a 24-hour period via a small tube inserted through the nose.
• Barium swallow: an X-ray test where you drink a liquid containing barium, which coats the esophagus and stomach so abnormalities show up on X-ray.
• Manometry: measures the pressure and strength of the muscles in the esophagus and sphincter.
• Ambulatory acid (pH) probe test: a small probe placed into the esophagus monitors acid levels over 24 hours.

Treatment options

Acid reflux can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and a sour taste in the mouth. There are several treatment options:

• Lifestyle modifications: eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods (spicy or fatty foods), avoiding alcohol and caffeine, quitting smoking, and elevating the head of your bed.
• Over-the-counter medications: antacids such as Tums or Rolaids provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid. H2 blockers (e.g. Pepcid or Zantac) or proton pump inhibitors (e.g. Prilosec or Nexium) reduce the amount of acid produced.
• Prescription medications: if over-the-counter options aren't enough, your doctor may prescribe a higher-dose proton pump inhibitor or a prokinetic agent to move food through the digestive system more quickly.
• Surgery: in rare, severe cases, surgery may tighten the lower esophageal sphincter or create a new valve to prevent acid from flowing back up.

When to see a pharmacist or doctor

If you are experiencing acid reflux symptoms on a regular basis, it is important to seek medical care. Check with a pharmacist at Optimum Pharmacy if:

1. You have frequent or severe symptoms — heartburn, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing more than twice a week, or symptoms severe enough to interfere with daily activities.
2. Your symptoms are not relieved by over-the-counter medications.
3. You are experiencing other symptoms, such as coughing, hoarseness, or a sour taste in the mouth.
4. You have other medical conditions, such as asthma or diabetes, that acid reflux can worsen.
5. You have a family history of esophageal cancer.

In general, if your acid reflux symptoms are frequent, severe, or interfering with your daily life, you should seek medical care. Your doctor can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options.

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