Heartburn: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms of Heartburn
Heartburn is characterized by burning or stinging sensation that is located and produced in the stomach, and it really is affecting the esophagus. This symptom usually occurs an hour after eating food and may persist for several more.
It really is a painful burning sensation that occurs in the throat (esophagus) just behind the breastbone. The pain often rises in your chest and may radiate to the neck or throat.
Also often have the feeling that food or liquids back into the throat or mouth (regurgitation), especially when you bend or lie down. Furthermore, these symptoms may be accompanied by a bitter or sour.
Diagnosis of Heartburn
Often the doctor can diagnose acid reflux only based on their symptoms, without an examination. However, testing may be required to diagnose GERD and determine its severity. Several tests are used to diagnose reflux, such as:
I Endoscopy Upper GI-The patient is given a sedative and passed a lighted flexible tube called an endoscope down your esophagus and stomach to visually inspect the lining. If necessary, you can take a biopsy for further analysis.
II Upper GI Series-The patient drinks liquid to coat the esophagus and stomach and then taking X-rays
III Esophageal manometry – A specialized tube through the esophagus to measure esophageal muscle function and role of lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
IV Observing pH for 24 hours – A thin tube is passed to the end of the esophagus to measure the amount of acid reflux. This test is performed for 24 hours while the patient continues with their normal activities, including food intake. Episodes of acid reflux can be compared with the symptoms described by the patient.
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