You have been scheduled for a test called a
24 hour PH probe
in the Endoscopy Department at Wentworth Douglass Hospital.

Your test is scheduled for: __________________________________at ______________AM / PM

Reason for the test:

The purpose of the test is to monitor the amount of acid in your esophagus (the tube leading from your mouth to your stomach) and to evaluate if the acid content increases with eating or sleeping. Your symptoms such as hoarseness, coughing, wheezing, sore throat, chest pain or burping will also be checked to see if they occur when you have a high amount of acid in your esophagus.

DO NOT EAT AFTER 10 PM THE NIGHT BEFORE THE TEST.

Before arriving for the test:

1. Shower and shampoo. Once the probe is in place, a complete shower will not be possible.
2. Stock an appropriate food supply of the foods you will be able to eat while the probe is in place: Milk, coffee, tea (no lemon), any meat, fish, shrimp, eggs, breads rice, bananas, apples, potatoes, carrots, squash, turnips, sweet potatoes, spinach, asparagus, cauliflower, lettuce, onions, radishes and cucumber. These will be the only foods you will be able to eat while the probe is in place.

How the test is done:

In order to monitor your acid level, a registered nurse in the endoscopy unit will insert a small catheter approximately twelve inches long into your nose and down into your esophagus. You may feel a little sting as it passes through your nose and throat irritation as it passes through your throat. Once the catheter is placed to the correct depth, it will be taped to your nose. The catheter is then plugged into a small recording device, which is worn on the belt or on a shoulder strap. The catheter will be worn for 24 hours. When you return to the hospital the next day, the catheter will be removed with very little discomfort.

Results:

Your test will undergo computer analysis immediately following completion. The results will be sent to your doctor for interpretation. Your physician will then notify you of the results.

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