Bravo™ pH Monitoring in Little Rock, AR
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Find a ProviderWhat is Bravo pH monitoring?
Bravo pH monitoring is a patient-friendly test for identifying the cause of heartburn. This test allows your doctor to evaluate your heartburn symptoms to determine the frequency and duration of acid coming up into your esophagus and to confirm if your condition may be GERD. The test involves a miniature pH capsule, approximately the size of a gel cap, that is attached to your esophagus. Throughout the test period, the Bravo pH capsule measures the pH in the esophagus and transmits this information to a small receiver worn on your belt or waistband just like a pager or mobile phone. To learn more about this procedure, request an appointment with our GI doctors at your earliest convenience.
Why should you test for GERD?
Do you have frequent indigestion or a burning sensation in the center of your chest? Do you regularly get sour or bitter-tasting fluids in your throat or mouth? Do you avoid lying flat or bending over to prevent acid from backing up into your throat? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you might have chronic heartburn or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) the heartburn may be so severe that it interferes with your daily routine.
Frequent or chronic heartburn may be associated with a more serious problem known as GERD. Damage caused by GERD can lead to more serious medical problems such as difficulty swallowing, narrowing of the esophagus, or Barrett’s esophagus. It is important to get diagnosed quickly when you have GERD so that proper treatment can be started. With the proper treatment, you can successfully manage the condition so it doesn't develop into something more severe.
What happens on the day of the Bravo pH procedure?
The capsule takes only moments to place in the esophagus. Then the test period lasts 48 hours or more, depending on what your doctor requests. The test is catheter-free; no tube or wire remains in your nose or mouth after placement of the capsule. The capsule is so small you may eat normally and go about your daily routine. Some patients say they have a vague sensation that “something” is in their esophagus. Some patients say they feel the capsule when they eat or when food passes the capsule. Should you experience this, chewing food carefully and drinking liquids may minimize this sensation.
You will be given a diary to write down the times when you have reflux symptoms when eating or when lying down. After the test is completed, you return the diary and the Bravo receiver to your doctor. The test data is uploaded to a computer and analyzed by your doctor to diagnose your condition. Your results will be discussed with you, and you will decide, along with your GI team, what treatment is optimal for your need.
Professional treatment for your GI needs
If you've been dealing with esophageal irritation that is negatively affecting your life, you don't have to continue. Request a consultation with our GI providers at GastroArkansas. We will work with you to ensure you get the treatment that helps you increase your GI health. Contact our location in Little Rock, AR for more information.
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Dr. Meziere has been my gastrointestinal doctor for 14 years. He treats me for Crohn's disease. I have always found him to be very knowledgeable about this disorder, and he will do everything possible to resolve my symptoms. Most important to me...he listens!
Nice, clean facility. Dr kataki was very professional and thorough about procedure information
Dr D Stokes has provided years of care to me and I have found him to be professional, courteous and caring. He listens attentively and provides knowledge and thoughtful options. I appreciate Dr Stokes.
The staff is very friendly and helpful. The doctors listen to your concerns. The doctors explain everything to you and ask if you have questions.
I had an appointment with the doctor he was through nice and made me feel very comfortable.
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