Why Would My Gastroenterologist Decide to Preform a 24 Hour pH Monitoring Test?

The ambulatory pH monitoring study is done to determine if acid is present in the esophagus for an abnormal amount of time and whether the occurrence of a specific symptom is associated with a period of acid reflux. This relationship is valuable in determining the source and the possible treatment of your symptoms. At times this test is performed to determine if a patient has gastroesophageal reflux disease. At Blair Gastroenterology Associates, we specialize in the education, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and disorders of the digestive system. If you need to speak to one of our caring staff members, be sure to contact us at your earliest convenience. We look forward to helping you.

What Can I Expect During a 24 Hour pH Monitoring Study?

During the 24 Hour pH Monitoring Study, a thin pH probe is passed through a nostril into the esophagus. This probe is connected to a small recording device worn by the patient. The patient notes all symptoms and activities in a diary and/or on a recorder as they occur, striving for an as normal routine as possible. After 24 hours the data is removed from the patient. The data is correlated, analyzed and interpreted by a physician. After the results are interpreted, your doctor will discuss the findings and go over treatment options if needed.

Preparing for your 24 Hour pH Monitoring Study

When you are scheduled to have a pH monitoring study, please read the instructions given to you by your physician. This procedure will take place at UPMC Altoona. You will receive a call a few days prior to the exam to review the instructions and give you an arrival time. You may ask them any questions at this time. You will be asked to stop taking Prilosec (Omeprazole), Prevacid, Nexium, Aciphex, Protonix, or Zegerid 5 days prior to the exam. If you take Zantac, Ranitidine, Tagamet, Pepcid, Axid, Reglan, or Cimetidine you must stop taking it 24 hours prior to the exam. Any antacids must be stopped 6 hours prior to the exam. You will be asked to not eat or drink after midnight before your exam. You should plan to wear a shirt or blouse that buttons in the front. You will not need a driver to bring you to and from the procedure. During the 24 hour testing time, you may not shower or bathe. Please plan to return to the hospital the following day to have the equipment removed. This process should only take a few minutes.