![]() These areas of your body cannot normally be seen on X-ray images. It is an examination of the oesophagus (food pipe) and the stomach. We hope the following information will answer some of the questions you may have about this procedure. Please contact Mokoia Radiology for an appointment on 0800 466 564.Your doctor has requested that you have a barium swallow. Please settle your account on the day of the examination. The barium can have a constipating effect, you must increase your fluid intake for three to four days to reduce the chance of constipation. The Radiologist will review the images and provide a written report to your referring doctor. If you do feel your vision is blurred, please wait until your eyes are clear before you drive your car.Īfter the Radiologist has seen your x-rays and the test is completed, you can eat or drink normally. The injection also causes temporary blurred vision for approximately 20 minutes. This injection temporarily stops the stomach peristalsis (muscle movement) so we can take better x-rays. The Radiologist may also give you a small injection into a vein in your arm during the examination. You may be given an effervescent gas-producing mixture, which gently inflates the stomach so we can see the lining more clearly. You will be x-rayed standing and lying down. ![]() The Radiologist will ask you to drink some barium mixed in water from a cup, it tastes chalky, but should not cause you any problems, while he/she takes images using the X-ray. ![]() By drinking the barium this coats the inner lining of these areas, the Radiologist can see them clearly on the X-ray screen and can watch the way the organs function during this study. Drinking water and eating a fibre-rich diet over the next few days may assist if this occurs.Īs the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum are soft tissue structures, they are not usually seen on a plain X-ray. It is very safe, but you should be aware that it may cause mild constipation. You will drink a small quantity (half a cup) of barium during this examination. What is barium?īarium is a white, dense, chalky substance that can be suspended in water and is visible on X-rays. They will explain the procedure prior and also as you go, but don't hesitate to ask them if you do not understand or have questions at any stage. Radiologist (x-ray doctor) and a Medical Imaging Technologist will be in the room with you. You will be asked to read through this, asked questions to ensure you are happy to continue with the procedure and lastly to sign the consent form. There is a consent form for this examination outlining the preparation, procedure, possible complications and aftercare. An x-ray gown will be given to you to wear.įemale patients - please let us know prior to this test if you are, or think you may be pregnant. You will be asked to undress to underpants. ![]() The test usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes. You will be asked not to eat or drink for 6 hours before the examination. Preparing for the testįor the barium to adequately coat the lining of the stomach, the stomach needs to be empty. Your Doctor may have suggested this test for several reasons: difficulty or pain in swallowing you may be troubled by indigestion or acid reflux or if it is suspected you have an ulcer or blockage in your stomach. The barium swallow and meal is a test to demonstrate the gullet ( the region from mouth to stomach), the stomach and the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). Barium Swallow and Meal Why have a Barium Swallow & Meal?
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