The real deal behind Ph and manometry tests

[NancyK.]

Hi again, (I have so many questions tonight!! Sorry to "hog" the boards!)

I know there is a section on this site that explains the Ph and manometry tests, and I know David explains very articulately in his story that his experience with these tests weren't bad at all. But I am asking all those who have undergone these tests (including the Bernstein test, since this site doesn't mention that one) to please give me the low down on what these tests are truly like. Not what the technician does, but what it was like having it going through your nose and down you throat and stuff. How it was having the tube in there for 24 hours. Could you eat? Sleep? Did you get the results you expected to get?

I was supposed to have these tests done last week, but I panicked at the last minute and cancelled. I am still suffering and I know I will have to re-schedule.

Please prepare me. How bad is it going to be?

PS- Hawk, to answer your question on the other thread, no, my doctor did NOT sedate me when he performed the gastroscope. And it was horrible.

Thank you.
Nancy

[af]

I have had the manometry test, and the hard part is getting the tube down. Once it's down, the rest is very doable with very tolerable discomfort. I recommend that you just RELAX and do the tests. The pH tube is smaller than the regular manometry tube, and many people have had this test without losing their minds. I am going to have the pH test done in the first of March, and I'm not dreading it horribly after having the manometry test.

The bottom line is this: if you need the test, then you need it. If you want to get better, you have to do something to get the information that helps your doctor give you the best advice.