Though it is true that acid reflux has specific characteristics, some physicians choose to run a series of tests to determine the possibly natural source of the problem. If a change in lifestyle and diet does not resolve the problem, your doctor may decide to perform one of the procedures explained herein to determine the root cause.

These procedures would be classified as invasive because they require placing a tube into your esophagus in order to gather information.

Two procedures recommended by the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, the 24-Hour Esophageal Ph Test and the 48-Hour Bravo Esophageal Ph Test, require the placement of a tube into your esophagus by way of the nasal passage. The tube must be inserted far enough so that it reaches the Esophageal Sphincter muscle, the starting point of acid reflux.

A small tube containing an instrument that detects acid levels is inserted into your food tube and placed just above the lower esophageal sphincter. A clear adhesive is placed over the tube to adhere it to your cheek and hold it in place. A recording device is attached to the end of the tube and placed on a belt or over your shoulder. With this device you can keep track of notable changes and make record of them.

What happens is that you follow certain food and medication restrictions from a week prior to your test. During the 24-hour test, you avoid showers; record your mealtimes, and meal contents, as well as your rest periods, when you lie down. There are certain buttons to be pressed on the recorder mechanism, in case you have certain symptoms, After 24 hours, the nurse removes this contraption, and the information is downloaded onto a computer that allows the doctor to review the situation and plan your treatment.

The Esophageal Manometry Test takes less time. It is performed by placing a small tube that is sensitive to pressure into the oral or nasal cavity and into your esophagus. This device calculates the assistance given to the digestive process by the esophagus by reading the intensity of the contractions of the muscles therein.

X-ray and Endoscopic procedures help in uncovering possible blockages that may hinder the digestion process. These procedures make use of a scope which allows for internal observation.

Daily medication or a change in habits and routine may be necessary once a doctor has determined that your acid reflux has not been caused by a scarred or overly narrow esophagus, or some sort of unnatural growth or occurrence.