Severe GERD Diagnosis. GERD Complications

Severe GERD Diagnosis

Endoscopy: Doctor will put a small lighted tube with a tiny video camera on the end (endoscope) into the esophagus to look for inflammation or irritation of the tissue (esophagitis). If the results are abnormal or questionable, they may remove a small tissue sample for more testing (biopsy).
Upper GI series: It’s a special X-ray that shows esophagus, stomach, and the upper part of small intestine (duodenum). It gives limited information about possible reflux, but it can help rule out other conditions, such as peptic ulcers.
Esophageal manometry and impedance study: This test checks for low pressure in esophagus. It can also show defects in how esophageal muscles contract.
pH testing: Doctor may measure the acid levels inside esophagus through this test. It tracks how much acid is in esophagus during meals, activity, and sleep. Newer techniques of long-term pH tracking have made this a more effective tool.

GERD Complications

Esophageal ulcer: Stomach acid eats away at your esophagus until an open sore forms. These sores are often painful and may bleed. They can make it hard to swallow.

Esophageal structure: Stomach acid damages the lower part of esophagus and causes scar tissue to form. This scar tissue builds up until it narrows the inside of the esophagus and makes it hard to swallow food.

Barrett’s esophagus: Acid reflux changes the cells in the tissue that lines esophagus. The lining gets thicker and turns red. This condition is linked to a higher chance of esophageal cancer.

Lung problems: If reflux reaches the back of the throat, it can cause irritation and pain. From there, it can get into the lungs (aspiration). If this happens, voice may get hoarse. One could also have postnasal drip, chest congestion, and a lingering cough. If lungs get inflamed, one can develop asthma, bronchitis, and possibly even pneumonia.

⇐ Предыдущая 1 2 34