Barium swallow what is it

You may be asked to change positions during the test. You will swallow a drink that contains barium. The drink is thick and chalky. It's usually flavored with chocolate or strawberry to make it easier to swallow. While you swallow, the radiologist will watch images of the barium traveling down your throat to your upper GI tract. You may be asked to hold your breath at certain times. The images will be recorded so they can be reviewed at a later time.

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test? Are there any risks to the test? What do the results mean? If your results were not normal, it may mean you have one of the following conditions: Hiatal hernia Ulcers Tumors Polyps Diverticula , a condition in which small sacs form in the inner wall of the intestine Esophageal stricture, a narrowing of the esophagus that can make it hard to swallow If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.

Is there anything else I need to know about a barium swallow? Net [Internet]. Esophageal Cancer: Diagnosis; Oct [cited Jun 26]; [about 3 screens]. Barium Swallow; p. Johns Hopkins Medicine [Internet]. Legal Requirements. Step 3: Peer Review and Funding Outcomes.

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This serious complication may result in swallowed food and liquid passing into the lungs, where it may cause pneumonia. An upper GI series oftens times provides information complementary to endoscopy. Nausea and vomiting within a half-hour after swallowing barium are the more prevalent side effects. Let them know immediately if you have any of these potentially serious side effects:. The upper GI tract—including the stomach, throat and esophagus—typically has a smooth lining, and fluid and structures move in a certain way.

A normal result means the size, shape, physical movement and appearance of the area show no irregularities. Your care team may discuss all of the results of your barium swallow test with you, as well as the need for possible follow-up.