BRAVO pH testing

BRAVO pH testing measures how much acid reaches the esophagus over several days. A small wireless capsule is attached temporarily to the lining of the esophagus during an endoscopy, and it transmits acid readings to a small receiver you carry or wear. There is no tube in the nose or throat during the recording period.

Reflux symptoms and actual acid exposure do not always match, and this test measures what is happening rather than estimating it. Dr. Gomez may recommend it when heartburn or regurgitation has not responded to treatment, when the diagnosis is uncertain, or when it matters to know whether symptoms line up in time with acid reaching the esophagus. The results guide how reflux is treated.

The capsule is placed during an endoscopy, so sedation is used for that part. Afterward you go about ordinary days and meals while the receiver records, and you note symptoms and mealtimes as the office instructs. Some people are aware of a mild sensation when swallowing; it usually eases. The capsule detaches on its own after the recording period and passes naturally, so nothing needs to be removed. You return the receiver so the data can be reviewed with you.