$Unique_ID{BRK00325} $Pretitle{} $Title{Concern About the Barium Swallow} $Subject{barium swallow dysphagia Special Procedures procedure Laboratory Tests test esophagus small intestine intestines digestive upset stomach heartburn burning pain Dysphagia sulfate fluoroscope x-ray ulcers growths tumors ulcer} $Volume{P-10,P-12} $Log{ Anatomy of the Gastrointestinal System*0003701.scf} Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc. Concern About the Barium Swallow ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ QUESTION: It is a new one on me, but I would like your explanation. I have been having stomach troubles and my doctor has scheduled me for something called a "barium swallow". I am very concerned. What is this test like and what is he looking for? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ANSWER: All the symptoms we think may come from our stomachs may frequently be caused by problems from the anatomical structures that are next to and connected with the stomach. The esophagus, the tube-like organ which leads from the mouth to the stomach, and the small intestine which leads away from the stomach may also be the guilty parties, causing digestive upset, heartburn, burning, or pain in the stomach area. Dysphagia, or pain during swallowing, can be mistaken for stomach discomfort, but the causes can be discovered during the procedure called the barium swallow. It's simple enough. You will be given a mixture that looks something like a milk shake, complete with strawberry or vanilla flavoring, to swallow. Actually this concoction contains barium sulfate, which may be seen quite easily on fluoroscope or x-ray studies. As the mouthful of swallowed barium moves down your esophagus, the radiologist will be able to detect abnormalities that exist in this part of your digestive system. X-ray pictures may be taken for study later. The passage of the liquid into the stomach and small intestine is also carefully followed, which means the procedure may take up to two hours to complete. During the test they may tilt the table to obtain different views of your organs, and help spread the barium around. Following the test it is wise to drink lots of fluids to help empty your bowels. Stools will look chalky and white for up to three days after the examination. Your physician may be looking for many things; the way your esophagus moves during swallowing, whether or not fluid backs up from the stomach to the esophagus, signs of ulcers, or growths and tumors. Since this test is painless and yields a great deal of information to help make a correct diagnosis, it is a sensible test to use in evaluating your trouble. ---------------- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.