Making the Diagnosis
Doctors usually diagnose GERD by assessing symptoms. Only people with severe chronic heartburn are likely to be tested for GERD. Tests may include a series of X-rays of the stomach to look for other possible problems, such as peptic ulcers. A blood or breath test may be performed to rule out the presence of the bacteria called H. pylori.
There are also tests to measure the pH (acidity) of the esophagus and the internal pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The most important diagnostic tool is the endoscope, a fiber-optic tube passed down the throat that permits the doctor to see the inside of the esophagus (a procedure called endoscopy).
People who have had regular or daily heartburn for 2 years or more should be tested for Barrett's esophagus. Many doctors check their patients who have this condition every year or two, looking for changes that may eventually develop into cancerous growths.