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Although
conservative efforts are helpful, 4 out
of 5 patients need further medical therapy.
This may include some of the
over-the-counter medications, or some of the
stronger prescription medications. If
patients are still having symptoms, further
workup is necessary.
pH Study
Another test that may be helpful is a pH study. A catheter is placed into the nose and rests in the esophagus to measure the level of acid in the esophagus. It is usually left in for 24 hours and the patient is asked to record events of reflux, meals, snacks and drinks. Plus any other notable events. This test helps confirm that the acid is entering the esophagus, how far up it reaches, and what events are related to the reflux. A scoring system, called the DeMeester score, helps define significant reflux