What is Heartburn / GERD Evaluation?
Heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) evaluation is the clinical assessment of persistent symptoms caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. Symptoms may include burning behind the breastbone, sour taste, chest discomfort, and difficulty swallowing. Evaluation helps determine the severity of reflux, identify complications, and guide effective treatment strategies.
When is Evaluation Recommended?
Evaluation is recommended for patients with chronic, disruptive, or complicated symptoms. Indications include:
- Heartburn occurring more than twice per week
- Persistent symptoms despite over-the-counter medication
- Difficulty swallowing or sensation of food getting stuck
- Chest pain not explained by heart disease
- Chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat clearing
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Unexplained weight loss or anemia
- History of esophageal injury or Barrett’s esophagus
Urgent evaluation is advised for severe pain, vomiting blood, or black stools.
How is Evaluation Performed?
Assessment begins with a history and physical examination to identify triggers, symptom patterns, and risk factors. Diagnostic tools may include an upper endoscopy to inspect the esophagus and rule out complications such as ulcers, strictures, or precancerous changes. pH monitoring measures acid exposure over 24 to 48 hours, while esophageal motility testing evaluates how well the esophagus moves food to the stomach. In some cases, imaging or manometry may provide additional information.
What to Expect After Evaluation?
Most evaluation procedures are quick and require no recovery time. Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately. If sedation is used during an endoscopy, temporary drowsiness, throat soreness, and dietary restrictions may occur for several hours afterward.
What are the Risks of Evaluation?
Evaluation is generally safe, but potential risks include:
- Mild discomfort during procedures
- Temporary side effects from sedation
- False negative or inconclusive results
- Rare complications during endoscopy
What are the Benefits of Evaluation?
Evaluation can:
- Confirm GERD and identify complications early
- Guide targeted treatment with medication or lifestyle changes
- Improve symptoms and prevent long-term damage
- Support decision-making for advanced therapies or surgery