A barium swallow is an x-ray of the throat and esophagus, the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. A barium swallow test is ordered for patients who are having trouble swallowing, or having unexplained pain or vomiting. It provides useful information about the condition of your esophagus and stomach, and can make or confirm a diagnosis.

During the procedure, you will drink barium, a thick, white, milkshake-like liquid. Barium coats the inside fining of the throat and esophagus and makes them show up more clearly on x-rays. A barium swallow takes about 30-45 minutes. It is not uncomfortable. The barium may cause constipation and white-colored stool for a few days after the procedure.

Your stomach must be empty for the procedure to be accurate, so the night before you will not be able to eat or drink anything after midnight. if your procedure is scheduled in the afternoon, you will not be able to eat or drink anything for 4 hours before your check-in time. We normally receive results of the test within 7-10 business days. After your physician reviews the report, we will call you with the results.