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.
Why is Barium Swallow Test done
The Barium Swallow is a valuable procedure for examining the esophagus. It helps in diagnosing various disorders such as difficulty in swallowing, reflux, unexplained chest pain 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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Barium Swallow Test procedure
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. 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:
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Fasting: It's usually required that you do not eat or drink anything, including water, for at
least 4-6 hours before the procedure.
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Clothing: You should wear comfortable clothing. You may be asked to wear a gown during the procedure.
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Medication: Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications, especially if you have diabetes or take
drugs that can affect the esophagus.
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Allergies: Notify the doctor if you have any known allergies, especially to contrast materials.
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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.
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You will be given a liquid that contains barium sulfate to swallow.
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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.
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The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.
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You can resume your regular diet and activities unless your doctor advises otherwise.
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The barium may cause your stools to be white or lighter in color for a few days.
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It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to help clear the barium from your digestive tract.
Frequently Asked Questions
A barium swallow test uses X-rays and a special dye called barium to find problems in the throat, esophagus, and stomach.
Yes, a barium swallow can identify blockages in the throat, esophagus, or stomach by showing areas where the contrast dye cannot pass through freely.
The decision relies on the condition being assessed. Endoscopy allows for direct visualization, whereas a barium swallow offers precise X-ray pictures.
It usually takes around 30-60 minutes to finish a barium swallow, which includes getting ready and taking the images.
The Barium Swallow test 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.
No, the procedure itself is not painful. However, you may find the taste of the barium liquid to be unpleasant.
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.
Yes, a barium swallow can identify ulcers in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum by showing abnormalities in the lining or shape of these organs.
Barium swallow tests are about 90% accurate in detecting issues like swallowing disorders, ulcers, or blockages. However, they're usually part of a broader diagnostic process, requiring further tests for a conclusive diagnosis.
The price of Barium Swallow Test is ₹1250 in Hyderabad. Sprint Diagnostics offers affordable Barium swallow x-ray tests at your nearest locations. Schedule today @ 040-69066767.
