In this procedure, x-rays are used to look at the back of your mouth, your throat and your oesophagus while you swallow a chalky white liquid called barium. These images help our radiologists (specialist doctors) to diagnose any disorders of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Before your Barium Swallow:
When you arrive:
The barium is artificially flavoured and sweetened. It has a chalky consistency, and some people think it tastes bitter.
It can sometimes cause constipation if not completely expelled from your body on the day of your procedure. To avoid this, please drink lots of fluid and eat high-fibre foods to help move it through your body.
Some problems that a barium swallow may help diagnose include:
A support person may accompany you to your appointment but typically cannot enter the scan room.