X-Ray Barium Swallow Test

A barium swallow is a test that may be used to determine the disorder of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, or the cause of painful swallowing, difficulty with swallowing, abdominal pain, bloodstained vomit, or unexplained weight loss. This test is done using Barium Sulfate mixture. Barium sulfate is a metallic compound that shows up on X-rays and is used to help see abnormalities in the esophagus and stomach. When taking the test, you drink a preparation containing this solution. The X-rays track its path through your digestive system. Although this test is safe, but barium swallow might have some complications.

You are advised to eat a low-fiber diet for 2 to 3 days before the barium swallow test. You should not eat, drink or smoke post midnight before the exam. You will wear a hospital gown and will be required to remove all jewelry including body jewelry such as rings, dentures, hair clips, or other objects that might show up on an X-ray. You will receive a form requesting your consent to perform the test. Read this form carefully. You should make sure that you understand the form and agree with it before signing it. Ask your doctor any questions you have before you sign the form

Your doctor will recommend a plan of action based on the results. The x-rays will show the digestive wave through the length of the esophagus. The barium swallow may reveal problems in the pharynx (the back of the throat), the esophagus, or the stomach. The problems could be narrowing, tumors, polyps, ulcers (erosions), or disorders in moving food through the system. It can also show a hiatal hernia, diverticula, or varices (enlarged veins). If the barium swallow test shows any area of concern, your doctor may plan what other tests, procedures, treatments, or medications you may need.

You will be strapped securely on your back on a table that tilts forward. X-rays to examine your heart, lungs, and abdomen will be taken before you drink the barium. You will be asked to drink about 1 1/2 cups of a barium preparation X-rays will be taken again as the barium moves through the digestive system. You will be asked to take more swallows so more pictures can be taken. The table will be tilted at various angles to help spread the barium for different views. Pressure may be applied to your abdomen to spread the barium. You will be placed horizontally, asked to swallow more barium, and X-rayed again.