What is a barium meal, or swallow?
As the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum are soft tissue structures, they are not usually seen on a plain x-ray. By using a barium "meal" and / or "swallow" to coat the inner lining of these areas, the radiologist can see them more clearly on the x-ray screen, and can watch the way the organs function during this study.

Why is this test done?
Your doctor may have suggested this test for several reasons: difficulty or pain in swallowing; indigestion or acid reflux; or if it is suspected you have an ulcer or blockage in your stomach.

What are the risks?
This is a safe test. There are no significant risks. But, as it involves x-rays, you must alert the radiologist if you are, or think you may be, pregnant.

			Pre Examination
	Please phone us to make an appointment for your examination. Your stomach must be empty for the barium to adequately coat the lining. For this reason, you will be asked not to eat or drink for six hours before the examination. Please do not smoke or chew gum on the morning of the examinations, as this may increase the amount of saliva in your stomach. The test usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes. You will be asked to undress to underclothes and wear a gown like a big T-shirt. Female patients - please let us know prior to this test if you are, or think you may be pregnant. Remember to bring your referral note from your doctor.

			The Examination
	The radiologist will ask you to drink some barium from a cup while he or she takes images using x-rays. The drink tastes chalky, but should not cause you any problems. The images are seen on a TV monitor and the radiologist will select some images to record the examination. You may be given an effervescent gas-producing mixture, which gently inflates the stomach so we can see the lining more clearly. The radiologist may give you a small injection in your arm during the examination. This injection temporarily stops the stomach peristalsis (muscle movement) so we can take better x-rays. Occasionally the injection causes temporary blurred vision for a few minutes. After the examination, if you do feel your vision is blurred, please wait until your eyes are clear before you drive your car. You are advised to stay in the waiting room until you feel your sight is clear. After the radiologist has seen your x-rays and the test is completed, you can eat or drink normally. Barium is a chalky substance that can be suspended in water and is visible on x-rays. It is very safe to ingest, but you should be aware that it may cause mild constipation. Drinking water and eating a fibre-rich diet over the next few days may assist if this occurs.

			Post Examination
	Your images will be saved to film or electronically. These are available to your doctor with a copy of the radiologist's interpretation of the study.