What is the primary diagnostic procedure for confirming GERD?

The primary diagnostic procedure for confirming gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is upper endoscopy. This procedure allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible tube with a camera (the endoscope). Through upper endoscopy, a healthcare provider can assess for any mucosal damage, such as esophagitis, which is a common complication of GERD. Additionally, biopsies can be performed during this procedure if needed, helping to rule out other conditions, such as Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer.

Other diagnostic methods like CT scans and MRIs are generally not used for GERD confirmation as they do not provide the necessary detail of the esophagus and its lining. While chest X-rays can be useful for ruling out other conditions, they lack specificity and sensitivity for diagnosing GERD, making upper endoscopy the preferred choice for evaluation and confirmation of the disease.