The Different Types of Acid Reflux Tests

It seems as though acid reflux disease is becoming more popular and common over the past ten years or so. With such a drastic increase in the number of individuals diagnosed with having acid reflux, testing has also become more popular. However, there is not just one acid reflux test, doctors have begun to get creative in their testing methods.

One of the simpler tests that are done for acid reflux disease is a saliva test. With acid reflux there is an increase in the acidic levels within the saliva. So, when this test is done, the Ph levels in the saliva is tested. This test is painless and very simple to do.

You will have to wait until about two hours after you have consumed a normal sized meal. Then you allow your mouth to fill with saliva, then swallow it. Do this again and swallow again. The third time your mouth fills up with the saliva you will need to spit it into the pH paper. Now you can compare the color of the paper with the colored chart and determine your acid level in your saliva.

Be cautious when you are using any medication to relieve your symptoms of acid reflux, whether they are over the counter or prescription. Be sure to inform your doctor of all other medications you are currently taking, both prescription and over the counter.

The next test for acid reflux we are going to discuss is the Barium x-ray. This is done to determine if there are any cuts or lesions. This testing can also determine if there is a hiatal hernia. It is common for an individual with a hiatal hernia to also suffer from acid reflux.

Another test that is done for the diagnosis of acid reflux disease is an endoscopy. This is done with a small thin tube that has a camera attached to the end of it. You will have to swallow the tube so the medical professional can see what is going on in the stomach area.

The endoscopy is probably the most uncomfortable acid reflux test discussed in this article. It can be uncomfortable when the tube is going down the throat, however it will not pose a problem with your breathing in any way. You will need to swallow a few times to assist in the tube going down.