Esophageal Impedance Testing in Chicago, IL

GI Solutions of Illinois offers a variety of diagnostic testing to help accurately identify and begin treatment for multiple gastrointestinal conditions, including reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Esophageal impedance testing is one such assessment that helps our specialists to evaluate the health and functionality of a patient’s esophagus to determine if they do in fact suffer from GERD or other gastrointestinal issues. Dr. Jonathan Erlich is a highly trained gastroenterologist with extensive experience performing esophageal impedance testing. Call (773) 631-2728 to request an appointment at our gastroenterology clinic in Chicago.

How Reflux Affects the Esophagus

Chronic reflux, whether acidic or non-acidic, can damage the lining of the esophagus. This not only makes daily actions such as eating and drinking more difficult, but can also lead to increased risk for the development of precancerous and cancerous cells. Being diagnosed with GERD should not immediately be associated with such serious concern over a potential for cancerous cells in the throat, though the earlier the disease is found and treated, the better the patient’s long-term outlook will be.

Before an individual can begin treatment for GERD, their condition will need to be confirmed using an esophageal impedance test or other diagnostic test from GI Solutions.

About the Diagnostic Process

Before the Test

Patients will receive clear instructions from their gastroenterologist to be completed prior to their esophageal impedance test. This examination will yield optimal results if the individual has an empty stomach, meaning that eating or drinking several hours before an esophageal impedance test is usually prohibited. It is also common practice to ask about the person’s medication regimens in order to stop taking any substances that may interfere with the results of their test.

Administering an Esophageal Impedance Test

The goal of this particular assessment is to examine the activity within an individual’s esophagus. To achieve insights into these functions, the physician must place a thin, flexible tube through the nasal cavity that is then carefully guided down the throat. Patients may be asked to swallow in order to assist in the placement of this tube.

Once situated, components located inside of the tube will begin to gather data about the movement of the esophagus and any possible reflux that enters it. It is typical for an esophageal impedance test to last a full 24 hours, during which time patients are encouraged to eat and drink as they normally would to emulate any other day when they may experience symptoms of GERD or acid reflux. It is important that individuals do not shower or bathe while involved in an esophageal impedance test, as this can compromise the device monitor.

Interpreting the Data

After returning the device and monitor to GI Solutions, your provider will take some time to thoroughly evaluate the test’s findings. It is common for our physicians to look for instances of reflux and investigate any possible triggers to this symptom, such as a particular food or engaging in a specific activity. Your gastroenterologist will relay their findings to you during a follow up consultation approximately 1-2 weeks following the esophageal impedance test.