| You will soon be undergoing an esophageal
motility exam. Your physician has recommended this test for further evaluation of your
esophagus. Some of the reasons for this test includes swallowing difficulties, unexplained
chest pain, severe heartburn, and regurgitation. There is a possibility that this test may
not answer the question of why you are having your problem.
At the time of the examination, lidocaine gel will be placed in one of your nostrils
and in the back of the throat in order to deaden these areas. Please let us know if you
are allergic to any "caines." A thin catheter will then be advanced through your
nasal passage and into your esophagus. Then, measurements are taken. If you have had
unexplained chest pain, you may receive an intravenous drug. The purpose of this drug is
to bring on a brief episode of the pain, so that the cause of the pain can be diagnosed.
The exam usually lasts between 30-45 minutes.
Do not take medications that might affect the test results. This list includes
all acid blockers (Tagamet, Zantac, Axid, Pepcid, Prilosec, and Prevacid). Do not
take Prilosec or Prevacid for at least 48 hours prior to the exam.
Continue all other medications that have been prescribed by a physician, such as high
blood pressure and cardiac medications. Take them as scheduled, even the morning of
your examination.
Clear liquids only after midnight and until 1 hour before leaving home. Clear liquids
include black coffee or tea, clear fruit juices (apple or white grape), bouillon, or
non-red gelatin desert (Jell-O). |
