Clinical Presentations
Referral should be considered for patients presenting with:
- Oropharyngeal or oesophageal dysphagia: sensation of food sticking in the throat or chest
- Unexplained weight loss: particularly if greater than 5% of body weight over the past 6 months
- Recurrent chest infections, such as aspiration pneumonia
- Choking episodes, especially during eating or drinking
- Suspected motility disorders, including achalasia or oesophageal spasm
- Persistent globus sensation, regurgitation, or odynophagia despite initial management
- Prior endoscopy with inconclusive findings but ongoing symptoms
How to Refer
Submit a standard gastroenterology referral, noting “Dysphagia assessment”, and include:
- Patient history and documented symptom details
- Relevant investigations (blood tests, imaging, prior endoscopy)
- Current medications, particularly those affecting acid levels (e.g., PPIs)
Referral can be sent via Medical Objects or directly to admin@mygutcare.com.au.
Prerequisites for pH Studies & Oesophageal Manometry
- Basic blood tests and prior imaging, if available
- Patients will need to undergo gastroscopy before pH studies (Bravo) or oesophageal manometry
- Documented symptom history and dietary changes
- Review of medications that may affect acid levels
How We Care for Your Patients
- Comprehensive clinical assessment and symptom review
- Investigations may include endoscopy, 24-hour pH monitoring (Bravo), or oesophageal manometry
- Individualised management plan, monitoring, and follow-up
Patient Resources
- 24-hour pH Study – 24hr PH Study – My Gut Care
- Oesophageal Manometry – Oesophageal Manometry – My Gut Care
References
- Selvanderan S, Wong S, Holloway R, Kuo P. Dysphagia: clinical evaluation and management. Internal Medicine Journal. 2021;51(7):1021–1027. doi:10.1111/imj.15409