Endoscopy

I'm glad you're taking the "bull by the horns" and seeking more information on your condition! What you learn can only benefit you in managing your reflux.

Two things to have done during the endoscopy: make sure your doctor takes biopsies for eosinophil counts, and also do the 48-hour Bravo pH study.

Let us know how it works out!

-Bruce

In the UK the Bravo test isn't as available I think. You can get pH monitoring done on a separate occasion when they will pass the wire down through your nose. I haven't even been offered it, and I didn't ask because I have zero tolerance to any tubes or wires being passed whilst I'm conscious. In the UK they can (and should) test for Helicobacter by biopsy and coeliac disease by biopsy at the time of the endoscopy. However, it is possible to have your GP do a "direct access" gastroscopy which is just a look see with the camera, with a doctor or nurse specialist steering the camera (I.e. Not a consultant gastroenterologist). If it were me facing a first gastroscopy I would ask to be referred to a consultant -that way you get "The Full Monty" and you get a consultant's opinion on what to do with your medication also.

Second time around I refused the "direct access" gastroscopy as I had a bad experience with failed sedation 3 years prior. My refusal left my GP with no place else to go - they have to rule out cancer as part of the standard protocol, so by not playing ball I got myself referred to a GI consultant who did the whole thing under GA, and I got the benefit of his opinion.

If you have good tolerance for the procedures then you can choose to have the GP-led gastroscopy service - if things resolve then you're all done. However, if medication fails you may face referral to a specialist and end up with a second scope.

In summary, in the UK, you should come away from your first round of tests with a gastroscopy, test for Helicobacter and coeliac disease. You may also get some routine blood tests and a scan of your gall bladder, if appropriate.

Jamaica, I have worked for the NHS and know its workings. Over here we are a lot less "trigger happy" as far as tests and interventions go, but most things are available. However, as you say, it depends on whether the test is clinically indicated and whether the results would change the management strategy.

Hope that helps,

MMM

Go with the gastroenterologist for now and see what that brings. They can liaise with an ENT colleague as and when they need to.

Good luck

MMM

Jamaica,

You may want to try starting a new thread called "Any one else in the UK with LPR?" - if there are any members over here with LPR they might be able to tell you how they got on, how it was diagnosed on the NHS and what tests they had........?

MMM