Acid reflux is also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and is defined as chronic damage to the esophagus due to the presence of abnormal reflux (of the stomach contents). This is generally due to an impairment of the gastroesophageal barrier such as a hiatal hernia or difficulty in tightening the cardia. Diagnosis of acid reflux involves recognizing the symptoms and confirming them with appropriate laboratory tests.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Identify the Symptoms
Step 1. Watch for heartburn
This is the most common symptom of acid reflux disease and can be described as a burning pain under the center of the chest. It occurs after meals and usually gets worse when lying down, bending over, or during physical exertion.
Step 2. Consider the possibility of other diseases causing heartburn
This is not a diagnostic symptom, as it can be caused by other conditions, in particular an ulcer. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, and an infection of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori can also cause heartburn.
Step 3. Perform a stomach acidity assessment (ph-metry) to determine if you are producing too much acid
First thing in the morning before you eat or drink anything, mix a quarter of a teaspoon of baking soda in 240ml of cold water and drink the solution. Calculate how long it takes before you burp. If your stomach produces adequate acid, you should burp within two minutes, but if the burps are repeated the cause may be excessive stomach acid and you should undergo a medical examination.
Method 2 of 3: Perform Laboratory Tests
Step 1. Follow a Therapeutic Trial
Take a drug that reduces stomach acid production. The diagnosis of acid reflux disease is confirmed if the drug greatly reduces the frequency of heartburn.
Step 2. Perform an esophageal acidity test
This test measures the time in which the esophagus retains acid, and is a standard test for diagnosing this disease. A catheter with a sensitive tip that can sense the amount of acid is passed through the nose and into the esophagus. The sensor detects the level of acidity in the esophagus over a period of 24 hours, and the results are then analyzed.
Step 3. Examine your throat and larynx if you have other symptoms of acid reflux disease
Symptoms such as cough, hoarseness and sore throat are usually caused by throat and laryngeal diseases, but can also be attributable to acid reflux disease. An otolaryngologist (ENT) can spot signs of acid reflux while analyzing other ear, nose, and throat issues.
Method 3 of 3: Undergo Imaging
Step 1. Perform a gastrointestinal endoscopy
This procedure is a common method for diagnosing this disease and involves sliding a tube with a camera into the esophagus and stomach. Endoscopy allows the operator to examine the gastrointestinal tract to analyze any damage to the esophageal lining. The examination can show the esophagus of patients with acid reflux disease that is occasionally inflamed, with erosions or ulcers in the esophageal lining, and can help in the diagnosis.
Step 2. Get a biopsy
A tissue sample may be analyzed if endoscopy shows complications of acid reflux disease, such as strictures or ulcers. Biopsies are useful in diagnosing other conditions that can cause esophageal inflammation, such as tumors or infections. A biopsy is also the only way to diagnose Barrett's esophagus, a pre-malignant condition associated with esophageal cancer.
Step 3. Make an exopagram
A substance that serves as a contrast medium is swallowed and an x-ray of the esophagus will be taken. X-rays are most helpful in assessing the complications of acid reflux disease.
