The diagnosis of GERD begins with a medical history and physical examination. The healthcare provider may then order an esophagoscopy. A thin tube with a light and camera attached to it is passed down into the esophagus. This allows a doctor to look at the inside lining of the esophagus directly through the endoscope . Small monitors can be dropped into the throat to monitor the acid level in the esophagus.
Most GERD sufferers have frequent, severe heartburn.
This tears down and damages the cell wall lining of the esophagus. GERD is not contagious and poses no risk to others. The surgeon passes a series of dilators down the esophagus. The dilators gently stretch the narrowed opening apart. Medications used to treat GERD may cause dry mouth , bloating, and allergic reactions .