A 24-hour pH study is a method of measuring the amount and frequency of acid reflux from your stomach into your esophagus. A very small tube is inserted and left in the esophagus for a 24-hour period which attaches to a small box that records the data, After the test is over and the tube is removed, the data in the box is fed into the computer and analyzed. Your physician will draw his conclusions from a combination of the pH graph, your symptoms, and the numerical data resulting from the computer analysis.

The spaghetti-sized tube, which measures the acid, is inserted through the nostril. The nurse will numb your throat and nose with a spray, and while you are sitting up, the nurse begins inserting the tube. Then you will lie down on the exam table and the tube position will be checked by an x-ray. The tube will then be attached to a small box, which records the information, it has a shoulder strap and a belt loop and can be worn either way. The box will display pH measurements, which you may ignore. It also displays a clock in military time which is important to you. It is this clock that you must use to record in the diary.

Before you are sent home, the nurse will explain care of the tube and recording box. You will also be instructed about which foods need to be avoided due to their acid level. You will take home a clipboard and a printed copy of the instructions. There will be space for you to record your activities and symptoms. It is important to use the clock on the recorder (not your watch) when documenting material in the diary. For the best test results, you should stick to your usual activity level and habits. The reason for having the test last 24 hours is to get a good sampling of your reflux episodes along with the recording in the box.

We normally receive results of the test within 7-10 business days. After your physician reviews the report, we will call you with the results.

For safe tube insertion, the stomach must be completely empty. Therefore, you should have nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before the test.

Certain medications will need to be discontinued prior to the procedure. Please see the preparation sheet for complete details. You may take Tums if necessary during this time period. If these medications (see prep sheet) were taken prior to the procedure, the test would have to be rescheduled. Otherwise, the test could produce a false negative reading and miss your diagnosis. You may resume all usual medication as soon as the tube is removed.

This procedure is safe and complications arc very rare. Some patients may experience a mild sore throat. Exposure to radiation is minimal (from x-ray to check tube position), but it you are pregnant you should postpone the test.

A 24-hour pH study is a safe procedure, which is usually very well tolerated, Your physicians decision to order this test was based upon assessment of your particular problem. If you have any questions about your need for this study, please do not hesitate to discuss them with your physician.