pH-metry
It is a long-term acid measurement in the oesophagus and/or the stomach over a period of 24 hours. The measurement is carried out by means of a very thin tube. Amongst others, it is applied:
- for diagnostics und therapy control of the reflux disease (reflux of gastric acid into the oesophagus)
- in case of non-specific chest pains
- in case of non-specific chronic couching and hoarseness
What does the examination look like and what should I pay attention to?
During the procedure, a thin measuring probe (similar to a ball point refill) will be inserted into the oesophagus through the nose and pharynx. If strong choke impulses occur, pharyngeal anaesthesia will be applied. In some cases, it may require a short x-ray screening for the purpose of an exact positioning.
The probe will be connected with a recording device that a patient should carry and will remain for about 24 hours. During this time, it is necessary to make a detailed record (meals, periods of time the patient spent in a bed, complaints).
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, a patient can move normally, eat and drink. The examination is symptom-free and painless, with an exception of a possible slight foreign body irritation in the nose and pharynx. After 24 hours, we shall remove the probe. Depending on the situation, a patient can stop taking acid-inhibiting medication 8-10 days after the procedure. It should be discussed with his general practitioner.
