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Barium Swallow

Barium Swallow

5000+ scans done & counting

Barium Swallow, also known as an Esophagram, is a diagnostic imaging procedure that allows doctors to examine the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects your throat to your stomach, and it's crucial for the passage of food and liquid. During a Barium Swallow test, a patient swallows a liquid that contains barium sulfate, a substance that enhances the visibility of the esophagus on X-ray images. This procedure is commonly used to diagnose and evaluate conditions such as difficulty in swallowing, reflux, unexplained chest pain, and abnormalities of the esophagus.

Home Sample Collection Process
1
Book your convenient slot
Book your convenient slot
2
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
Download Reports
Download Reports

Note: Home Sample Collection is only for Pathology lab tests.

Barium sulfate coats the walls of the esophagus, making the shape and contours visible under X-rays. This allows the doctor to see the esophagus in detail and identify any abnormalities such as narrowing, blockages, tumors, or structural problems.

  • Test NameBarium Swallow- Digital X-ray
  • DurationThe procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.
  • Price₹ 1250 /-
Specific Instructions:

  • 1

    Fasting: It's usually required that you do not eat or drink anything, including water, for at least 4-6 hours before the procedure.

  • 2

    Clothing: You should wear comfortable clothing. You may be asked to wear a gown during the procedure.

  • 3

    Medication: Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications, especially if you have diabetes or take drugs that can affect the esophagus.

  • 4

    Allergies: Notify the doctor if you have any known allergies, especially to contrast materials.

  • 5

    You will be positioned on an X-ray table, either standing or sitting. A radiology technician will be present to guide you through the procedure.

  • 6

    You will be given a liquid that contains barium sulfate to swallow.

  • 7

    The radiologist will take a series of X-ray images while you swallow the barium. You might be asked to hold your breath at times and to swallow on command.

  • 8

    The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.

  • 9

    You can resume your regular diet and activities unless your doctor advises otherwise.

  • 10

    The barium may cause your stools to be white or lighter in color for a few days.

  • 11

    It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to help clear the barium from your digestive tract.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the procedure itself is not painful. However, you may find the taste of the barium liquid to be unpleasant.

Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hiatal hernia, ulcers, tumors, or strictures can be diagnosed with a Barium Swallow.

The risks are minimal. However, there is a very small risk of barium aspiration, allergic reaction to the barium, or bowel obstruction.

Preparation involves fasting for several hours before the test. You should also inform your doctor of any medications you are taking and if you have allergies.

If the test results are abnormal, your doctor will discuss the findings and may recommend additional tests or treatment depending on the diagnosis.

You may experience constipation or see a change in stool color following the procedure. Drinking fluids can help alleviate constipation.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, you should notify your doctor as exposure to X-rays can be harmful to the unborn child.

The length of time it takes to get results can vary. Generally, the radiologist will review the images and send a report to your doctor within a few days.

A Barium Swallow focuses solely on the esophagus, while an Upper GI series examines the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine.

Yes, as X-rays are used during the procedure, there is exposure to a small amount of radiation.

Yes, alternatives might include an endoscopy or manometry depending on what your doctor is looking for.

You should consult a gastroenterologist if there are abnormalities in your Barium Swallow results.

Yes, you can drive home after the procedure as it does not involve sedation.

Yes, you can resume your regular diet unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

Yes, it is safe for children, but it's essential to ensure that they follow the preparation instructions.

The Barium Swallow is a valuable procedure for examining the esophagus. It helps in diagnosing various disorders and contributes to the decision-making process for treatment. The procedure is generally safe and well-tolerated. It is important to follow all the preparation instructions carefully, and if you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor.

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Locations Near You in Hyderabad
  • 4KM from Madhapur
  • 3KM from Banjara Hills
  • 1.9KM from Yusufguda
  • 3KM from Madhura Nagar
  • 5KM from Shaikpet