Digestive Disorders Health Center

The Esophagus and pH Testing

What Information Should I Record During the pH Test?

During the monitoring period of the pH test, make sure you keep accurate records:

• Record your primary symptoms, as discussed with your doctor, by pressing the appropriate buttons on the monitor when the symptoms occur.
• Record the times when you are eating, drinking anything except water, or lying down (you do not have to be sleeping or intending to sleep when lying down). Record the following:

   

  • The time when you start eating
  • The time when you finish eating
  • The time when you start lying down
  • The time when you finish lying down

   

What Happens After the Esophageal pH Test?

You may resume your normal diet and activities after the esophageal pH test. If your throat feels sore following the test, suck on lozenges.

At your next appointment, your doctor will discuss your test results.

Are There Other Devices That Can Be Used?

A new device known as BRAVO may make monitoring the pH level easier. Instead of having to have a tube placed down your nose for 24 hours, your doctor will place a disposable capsule into the esophagus using an endoscope. The capsule then wirelessly transmits information about esophageal acid activity to a receiver worn around the waist for 48 hours.