Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic test used to measure the muscle contractions and pressure inside your esophagus—the tube that carries food and liquid from your mouth to your stomach. This test helps determine how well your esophagus and its valve (the lower esophageal sphincter) are working. It is commonly recommended for patients who have symptoms such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chest pain not related to the heart, regurgitation or food getting “stuck,” and suspected motility disorders such as achalasia or esophageal spasm.
Esophageal pH testing measures the amount of acid reflux that flows back into the esophagus from the stomach. A thin probe is placed through the nose and positioned in the esophagus, where it records acid levels over 24–48 hours. This test is often recommended if you experience frequent heartburn or acid reflux, suspected Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), chronic cough, hoarseness or throat irritation, or symptoms that do not improve with medication.
Together, manometry and pH testing help your gastroenterologist pinpoint the cause of swallowing difficulties, confirm or rule out GERD and reflux-related disorders, identify esophageal motility conditions such as achalasia, spasms, or scleroderma, and guide treatment decisions, including medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.
During esophageal manometry, a thin, flexible catheter is gently inserted through the nose into the esophagus. You will be asked to swallow small amounts of water while sensors in the catheter record the strength and coordination of esophageal muscle contractions. The test takes about 30 minutes and does not require sedation. For pH testing, a small pH probe or wireless capsule is positioned in the esophagus. It records acid exposure for 24–48 hours while you go about your normal activities. You will be asked to track meals, symptoms, and sleep times for accurate analysis. After monitoring, the probe is removed, or in the case of a capsule, it naturally passes through the digestive system.
Both procedures are considered safe and minimally invasive. You may feel mild temporary discomfort, such as a sore throat or nasal irritation, which typically resolves quickly.
These tests provide precise measurements of esophageal function, identify abnormal acid exposure linked to GERD, help tailor the right treatment plan—whether medication, diet changes, or surgery—and reduce trial-and-error in managing digestive health problems.
At Digestive Health Services, our specialists use advanced esophageal motility and pH testing to diagnose conditions accurately and create personalized care plans. If you have ongoing reflux, chest discomfort, or swallowing problems, these tests can provide the answers you need. Contact us today to learn more or schedule your appointment.
