Restech Testing
Diagnosing GERD & LPR
An estimated 40% of Americans are affected by reflux disease. While most of us are familiar with the classic heartburn of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a type of acid reflux that doesn’t follow the same rules. It affects the more sensitive lining of the upper esophagus, larynx, and pharynx. Instead of heartburn, nausea, and regurgitation, LPR causes symptoms like sore throat, hoarseness, post-nasal drip, and chronic cough. These can often be mistaken for pre-existing asthma, allergies, laryngitis, or upper-respiratory infection; making accurate diagnosis a challenge.
Fortunately, there is now a way to definitively test for acid backing up into your throat: The Restech pH Monitoring System. With this system, a thin tube is inserted in the nose with minimal discomfort and will remain high in the throat for 24 hours. After 24 hours of monitoring, a report will be generated to determine if too much acid is affecting your throat.
With this accurate testing approach, people who suffer from reflux disease can have peace of mind knowing that there are strategies available for effective diagnosis and treatment of LPR.
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, request an appointment with Allergy Partners. Our team will determine if Restech testing is right for you.
Treating GERD & LPR
Treating GERD and LPR involves taking a comprehensive approach to improving one’s lifestyle, diet, and medications. Diet changes such as avoiding triggers including alcohol, tobacco and caffeine, eating smaller meals at regular intervals, and elevating the head of the bed can all help reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Medication may also be necessary to treat GERD and LPR. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole are commonly prescribed for reducing stomach acid levels, as well as H2 receptor blockers (H2RBs) such as famotidine. These medications can provide relief from symptoms while reducing inflammation in throat tissue. However, it is important that medication be taken in accordance with a doctor’s recommendation to avoid any adverse effects.
The Allergy Partners Difference
Allergy Partners is committed to helping you find relief from your health struggles. Our local teams are backed by a national network of premier allergists and immunologists, and we all work together to continually innovate and enhance our services.
If post-nasal drip, coughing, or a sore throat are bothering you, request an appointment with us today. We’ll decide if Restech testing is right, and if not, we’ll make alternative recommendations to help you find relief – and find it fast.
Find your local Allergy Partners today for allergy testing and more!
Four Steps to Relief
Planning Your First Visit
Schedule an appointment at your local office and fill out our pre-registration and medical history forms to help minimize any wait time when you arrive.
Your First Visit
Your initial visit will consist of a consultation, review of your medical history and a comprehensive exam to build a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Diagnostics and Testing
We may complete one or more tests to better understand the cause of your symptoms. Common tests include skin testing, pulmonary testing, and blood testing.
Treatment
Following the evaluation and testing, we’ll provide a comprehensive diagnosis and implement a personalized treatment plan that will deliver relief.
