GERD and Acid Reflux Testing

Identify the Cause and Protect Your Digestive Health

Precise Testing for Lasting Relief in Coachella

At Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology, we provide a comprehensive evaluation for patients experiencing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic acid reflux. Frequent heartburn, regurgitation, and throat irritation can impact daily life and lead to serious complications if left untreated. Dr. Mehrdad Asgeri uses advanced testing methods to determine the cause of reflux symptoms and guide effective treatment.

Why Testing for GERD and Acid Reflux Matters

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. While occasional reflux is common, frequent symptoms may indicate GERD, a chronic condition that requires medical attention. Without diagnosis and treatment, GERD can lead to inflammation, esophageal narrowing, or even precancerous changes known as Barrett’s esophagus.

Testing is essential because not all reflux symptoms are caused by excess acid. Other digestive disorders can mimic GERD, and an accurate diagnosis ensures that treatment addresses the real cause.

Common Symptoms of GERD and Acid Reflux

Patients with GERD may experience one or more of the following:

  • Frequent heartburn
  • Acid regurgitation
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Chest discomfort not related to the heart
  • Chronic cough
  • Hoarseness or sore throat
  • Sensation of a lump in the throat
  • Worsening symptoms after eating or lying down

Only a detailed evaluation can confirm the cause, since many of these conditions share similar symptoms.

How We Test for GERD and Acid Reflux

At your appointment, Dr. Asgeri will take a detailed history of your symptoms, diet, and lifestyle. Depending on your case, one or more of the following tests may be recommended:

  • Upper Endoscopy (EGD) to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine for signs of inflammation, ulcers, or narrowing
  • Esophageal pH Monitoring to measure acid exposure in the esophagus over 24 to 48 hours
  • Esophageal Manometry to evaluate the function of the muscles that move food through the esophagus
  • Barium Swallow X-ray to assess swallowing function and detect abnormalities in the esophagus
  • Impedance Testing to detect non-acid reflux events that may cause symptoms

These tests provide a complete picture of what is happening inside your digestive system and help rule out other possible causes of your discomfort.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Testing

Before

You may need to avoid food and drink for several hours prior to certain tests. Some procedures also require stopping specific medications temporarily.

During

Procedures like upper endoscopy are done under sedation for comfort. pH monitoring involves placing a small probe in the esophagus or attaching a wireless capsule during endoscopy. Manometry and barium swallow tests are performed without sedation but are generally well tolerated.

After

Dr. Asgeri will review your results with you in detail, explaining what they mean and how they relate to your symptoms. You will leave with a treatment plan tailored to your condition.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

While GERD is often a chronic but manageable condition, some symptoms require urgent attention. Seek immediate care if you experience:

  • Difficulty or pain with swallowing
  • Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Black or tarry stools
  • Severe chest pain that may be heart-related
  • Unexplained weight loss

Treatment Plans Based on Your Results

Your treatment plan may include:

  • Dietary adjustments to reduce triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
  • Weight management strategies if excess weight contributes to reflux
  • Medications to reduce stomach acid or improve esophageal motility
  • Endoscopic or surgical procedures for severe or unresponsive cases
  • Ongoing monitoring for complications such as Barrett’s esophagus

Our goal is to treat the cause, not just the symptom, so that you can enjoy lasting relief.

Why Choose Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology

With more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Mehrdad Asgeri is double board-certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology. His approach combines advanced technology with patient-focused care, ensuring that you receive both accurate diagnosis and practical solutions.

Our clinic serves Coachella, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, and surrounding areas, offering a modern environment where patients feel heard and supported.

Take Control of Your Digestive Comfort

If you experience frequent heartburn, regurgitation, or other symptoms of reflux, schedule GERD and acid reflux testing at Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology. Identifying the cause is the first step to lasting relief and protection of your esophageal health.

Call our office or request an appointment online to begin your evaluation today.
FAQs

About GERD and Acid Reflux Testing

When should I get tested for GERD or acid reflux?

You should seek testing if you have heartburn or acid regurgitation more than twice a week, or if symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medications. In Coachella Valley, Dr. Mehrdad Asgeri offers complete GERD evaluations to identify the cause and recommend targeted treatment.

Acid reflux refers to the occasional backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, often causing heartburn. GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic form of reflux where symptoms occur frequently and can lead to complications if untreated.

Common diagnostic tests include upper endoscopy (EGD), esophageal pH monitoring, impedance testing, esophageal manometry, and barium swallow X-ray. The right test for you depends on your symptoms and medical history.

Not always. While endoscopy is a valuable tool for identifying inflammation, ulcers, or narrowing of the esophagus, some patients can be diagnosed with pH monitoring or other non-invasive tests. Your gastroenterologist will recommend the most appropriate method.

Yes. Untreated GERD can lead to esophagitis (inflammation), esophageal strictures (narrowing), respiratory problems, and Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Early diagnosis is important for prevention.

You can start by avoiding trigger foods such as spicy dishes, citrus, caffeine, and alcohol. Eating smaller meals, not lying down immediately after eating, and elevating the head of your bed may also help reduce symptoms.

Results from imaging or endoscopy are often available the same day. pH monitoring and manometry results may take a few days to review and interpret. Dr. Asgeri will discuss your results in detail during a follow-up visit.

Request An Appointment

Whether you’re seeking a hepatologist in Coachella, a trusted expert in stomach pain and ulcer treatment, or guidance on fatty liver disease management, Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology is here to support your long-term digestive wellness. Book a GI specialist in Coachella today and take the first step toward a healthier you.

760-205-2081

(For Appointments)

760-699-7607

(For General Inquiries)