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00325.txt
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1994-01-17
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$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.
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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.