Content created by
Barium Swallow
Also known as Barium Test
This test is for
Male, Female
Test Preparation
Understanding Barium Swallow
What is Barium Swallow?
A barium swallow, also called esophagogram uses special type of X rays to visualize the part of upper digestive tract (the esophagus
the stomach
the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum) . The test is used to diagnose diseases such as ulcer, hernia, GERD & tumors. The test requires drinking a liquid of barium that helps in clear visbility of the parts of the body. The test can be ordered if have you have symptoms such as trouble swallowing, bloating, vomiting & abdominal pain.
What is Barium Swallow used for?
- • To look for abnormalities of the pharynx (throat) and oesophagus (food pipe), and help diagnose various conditions like blockages, strictures, diverticuli, polyps, cysts, tumors (abnormal growth) and ulcers • To diagnose hiatus hernia (a condition in which the stomach has moved up alongside the esophagus) • To diagnose the cause of persisting gastro-esophageal reflux • To diagnose the cancer of the neck, pharynx, or esophagus • To evaluate the cause of enlarged veins in the esophagus (varices), muscle disorders, such as difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia) or spasms • To identify achalasia (a condition in which it is difficult for food to pass into the stomach)
Other tests
Other similar tests
Our popular tests