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Swallow study
This test is for
Male, Female
Test Preparation
Understanding Swallow study
What is Swallow study?
The Barium Meal Swallow test is an imaging test that uses X-rays to scan and photograph the throat/food pipe after consuming a barium solution. It helps in diagnosis of the conditions affecting these regions and is used to visually assess its abnormalities.
What is Swallow study used for?
- To look for abnormalities of the pharynx (throat) and oesophagus (food pipe), and help diagnose conditions causing abnormalities like blockages and strictures, diverticula, 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 gastroesophageal 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 swallowing (dysphagia) or spasms
- To identify achalasia (a condition in which it is difficult for food to pass into the stomach)
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