Question about endoscope results

I have had throat problems on and off for more than 2 years. Constant urge to cough and when i do the phelgm is thick and ropy and clear. Constant taste of metal in the mouth and the burning feeling in the throat.Not allergies-I am being treated for those. I was scoped up the nose by my ENT yesterday. He noted that my vocal cords appear red and slightly swollen indicative of reflux. He remarked that there were no masses, cysts or tumors and that I may need medicinal treatment. However, he did not give me a prescription so as not to mask anything for the next doctor. I have been referred to his own personal GI doctor and am seeing him the first week of January. What can I expect as far as more tests are concerned?  If my vocal cords are red, can this indicate reflux? It certainly feels like something is regurgitating. Thank you for any advice you can give!

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
Reddened voval cords can occur in severe reflux.
Upper GI endoscopy will not show  anything in about 70% of the cases of GERD ( This constitutes NERD or non erosive reflux disease).Upper GI endoscopy is helpful in patients with complications like reflux esophagitis, stricture etc.
24 hours pH monitoring test is the confirmatory test for diagnosing GERD.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.