How to Determine the Cause of Mouth Acidity Through Gastroscopy

Aug 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Shen Yonghua

Introduction

It is generally possible to observe the condition of the esophageal mucosa, examine gastric mucosal lesions, and assess the function of the cardia. A gastroscope can directly enter the esophagus, allowing clear visualization of inflammatory changes in the esophageal mucosa, such as congestion, edema, and erosion. Acid regurgitation is often related to gastroesophageal reflux. If the mucosa of the distal esophagus is damaged, it suggests frequent acid reflux and may be the primary cause of acid regurgitation.

　　Gastroscopy can help identify the causes of a sour taste in the mouth by generally observing the condition of the esophageal mucosa, examining gastric mucosal lesions, assessing the function of the cardia, detecting Helicobacter pylori infection, and evaluating gastric motility. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　1. Assessing the Condition of the Esophageal Mucosa: Gastroscopy allows direct visualization of the esophagus, enabling clear observation of the esophageal mucosa for signs of inflammation such as congestion, edema, or erosion. A sour taste in the mouth is often related to acid reflux into the esophagus. If the mucosa of the lower esophagus is damaged, this indicates frequent acid reflux, which may be the main cause of the sour taste.

　　2. Examining Gastric Mucosal Lesions: Gastroscopy enables detailed observation of the gastric mucosa for lesions such as gastric ulcers, gastritis, or gastric polyps. These conditions may lead to abnormal overproduction of gastric acid, which can easily flow upward and cause a sour taste in the mouth. Gastroscopy can clarify the type and severity of the lesions.

　　3. Assessing Cardiac Function: The cardia is the area connecting the stomach and the esophagus, and dysfunction can lead to acid reflux. During gastroscopy, the closure status of the cardia can be observed. If the cardia is found to be relaxed or incompletely closed, it indicates that gastric acid can easily reflux into the esophagus or even the oral cavity, causing a sour taste.

　　4. Detecting Helicobacter pylori Infection: Some gastroscopies include taking gastric mucosal tissue samples for pathological examination to determine whether there is Helicobacter pylori infection. Infection with Helicobacter pylori may stimulate the gastric mucosa to secrete excessive gastric acid, leading to acid reflux.

　　5. Evaluating Gastric Motility: During the gastroscopy, the physician can observe the amount of food residue in the stomach and the frequency of gastric peristalsis to indirectly assess gastric motility. Insufficient gastric motility can cause food to remain in the stomach, promoting increased gastric acid secretion and increasing the likelihood of reflux, thereby causing a sour taste in the mouth.

　　If a sour taste in the mouth persists long-term, it is recommended to undergo gastroscopy promptly to determine the cause. Prior to the examination, follow the doctor's instructions for preparation, such as fasting.

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How much does a painless gastroscopy cost?

In general, the reference price for a painless gastroscopy ranges from 800 to 3000 yuan. The specific price is influenced by factors such as preoperative examination items, type of anesthetic used, whether pathological biopsy is included, type of examination equipment, and regional cost of living. Actual pricing is recommended to be confirmed with the local hospital. If a painless gastroscopy is required, it is recommended to choose a formal medical institution.

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Can patients with cardiac premature beats undergo gastroscopy?

In general, cardiac premature beats refer to premature contractions. Patients with premature contractions are not absolutely prohibited from undergoing gastroscopy; the decision depends on the frequency of the premature contractions. If the premature contractions are occasional, gastroscopy is generally permissible; however, if they are frequent, gastroscopy is not recommended. It is important to maintain a regular作息 (作息 translates to作息 time or routine作息 here, but since it's in Chinese text and needs to be translated, I'll adjust accordingly), maintain a regular daily routine, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid excessive fatigue.