Pediatric pH probe study for reflux

Q: What is allowed during pediatric pH probe study?

Your child should continue with usual activities. A diary of symptoms such as crying coughing chest pain refusing to eat This will help determine whether acidity in the esophagus is responsible for your child’s complaints. Carbonated drinks, such as soda, should be avoided.

Overview

What is a pediatric pH probe study?

A pH probe study measures the pH (amount of acidity) in the esophagus (food tube). The study helps determine whether or not acid is coming up from the stomach.

What to Expect

What can I expect with a pediatric pH probe study?

A pH probe study measures the pH (amount of acidity) in the esophagus (food tube). The study helps determine whether or not acid is coming up from the stomach.

A pH probe study is usually done in patients:

if gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is suspected
to determine how effective treatment is while taking antacids
to help explain nighttime cough, hoarseness, or other complaints

What can I expect after a pediatric pH probe study?

After 18-24 hours, the tube is removed. The information stored in the recorder is analyzed. Your child's provider will contact you to discuss the results and next steps.

Doctors and Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

How is pediatric pH probe study performed?

A thin plastic tube with a sensor at the tip is placed into one nostril. It is moved into the esophagus. Inserting the a tube may cause your child to:

gag
sneeze
make their eyes tear

A chest x ray is taken to confirm the position of the tip of the probe. A wire is connected to a portable recorder. The recorder collects information from the probe. Your child can carry the recorder around for the rest of the study. The study lasts 18-24 hours.

What is allowed during pediatric pH probe study?

What to know about measles and the MMR vaccine

Pediatric pH probe study