Bernstein: the test process and how to read the results & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is bernstein?

The esophagus or esophagus extends from the lower throat to the stomach. At the end of the esophagus is a muscular valve or sphincter called the lower esophageal sphincter. The lower esophageal sphincter opens to allow food and saliva to enter the stomach. The sphincter only opens for a few seconds and then closes again, to keep stomach contents from rising up into the esophagus.

Heartburn occurs when the valve is not closed properly. Malfunctions of the valve muscles or lower esophageal sphincter can be due to muscle weakness or relaxation of the valve or sphincter muscles. The disorder can cause acid in the stomach to rise up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest.

The Bernstein test is used to simulate heartburn symptoms or a burning sensation in the chest. The test is intended to reproduce the symptoms experienced when acid rises from the stomach into the esophagus. This test is also known as an acid perfusion test.

When should I undergo bernstein?

The Bernstein test is usually used to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This test is done in conjunction with other tests to find out the cause of heartburn. This test can also rule out heartburn as a cause of other symptoms.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before undergoing bernstein?

Today, the Bernstein test is rarely used. Doctors more often use other tests for symptoms of acid reflux disease, such as the 24-hour esophageal pH test.

Process

What should I do before undergoing bernstein?

To prepare for the esophageal test:

avoid taking antacids (such as Tums or Rolaids) for 24 hours before the test
follow doctor's instructions by taking acid-lowering drugs, such as famotidine (Pepcid) or omeprazole (Prilosec) before the test
avoid drinking alcohol or smoking 24 hours before the test
inform your doctor if you have other problems such as dilation of the esophageal blood vessels (esophageal varices), heart failure or other heart conditions

What is the bernstein process?

First, a thin, lubricated tube is inserted into your nostril, then down the back of your throat into your esophagus. The nasogastric tube is guided by the nasal passages to the stomach. After that, the hydrochrolic acid solution is inserted into the tube, followed by a salt solution. This procedure will be carried out several times.

You will be asked if you feel a burning sensation or discomfort during the test. You are not told what solution is being tested. The purpose of this test is to find out the cause of the pain.

The salt solution is usually painless. Acid solutions can cause pain if the esophagus is injured by stomach acid. The Bernstein test can cause choking or vomiting, but has no further effects. The hydrochloric acid solution used is very light.

What should I do after undergoing bernstein?

After the test, the doctor will explain the test results. If the pain is caused by hydrochloric acid, you may have GERD. Other tests are needed for a more accurate diagnosis. These tests include:

monitor esophageal pH for 24 hours (stomach acidity test)
barium swallow (to find radiological evidence of esophageal damage)
endoscopy of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine (direct visualization of the upper digestive tract)
esophageal manometry (looking for abnormalities in the esophageal motility).