The Bravo pH monitoring system helps Dr. Coronel determine if you have GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) by measuring the degree of acidity or alkalinity in your esophagus over a 24- to 48-hour period. The pH test monitors:
- How often stomach acid flows into the lower esophagus
- Degree of acidity during the test period
The Bravo system consists of a tiny gel cap-sized capsule that is temporarily attached to the wall of your esophagus. This small capsule measures pH levels in your esophagus and transmits this information wirelessly to a portable receiver that you wear on your waistband or belt. The receiver is about the size of a small cell phone or pager and has three symptom buttons. During the study, you will be required to press the appropriate button when you experience heartburn, regurgitation or chest pain.
You will also be asked to record periods of eating and sleeping in a diary throughout the test. Maintaining regular activities and a normal diet during the test also has the potential to provide a more accurate picture of acid exposure, compared to data collected using catheter-based systems where normal activities may be limited.
The receiver is designed to stay on throughout the duration of the test and does not intefere with your daily routine. In general, the only restriction is to keep the receiver within three feet of your body at all times.
The information gathered from the pH test, along with your diary entries, helps Dr. Coronel diagnose and plan your treatment accordingly.
Learn more about Bravo pH testing at East End Gastroenterology & Hepatology. Call 631-591-3000. Or use our convenient Request an Appointment form. Our Bravo pH patients come to us from Patchogue, East End, Manorville, Mastic, Riverhead and bordering locations.
