Information for Patients

A barium swallow and meal is an x-ray examination of the oesophagus (gullet), stomach and intestines. These areas are not seen clearly on plain x-ray films, so contrast dyes such as barium or Gastrografin are used to outline them.

This test is often requested by doctors for patients who have difficulty swallowing or have pain when they swallow.  These symptoms may indicate a narrowing in the oesophagus, ulceration or inflammation of the oesophagus.  It could also indicate a failure of normal relaxation of the oesophagus during swallowing.

Please follow the instructions on your appointment letter carefully.

Usually, we ask you not to eat or drink anything for 3 hours prior to your examination. Also avoid smoking or chewing gum to decrease the secretions in your mouth and neck.

The investigation involves exposure to x-rays.  X-rays consist of a type of radiation known as ionising radiation.  The doses that are used in medical x-rays are very low and the associated risks are minimal.  We keep the doses as low as possible and make sure that the benefits of having the x-ray outweigh any risk. 

Also, x-rays can be harmful for an unborn baby and should be avoided by women who are or who may be pregnant.  It is recommended that the examination is performed within 10 days of the first day of the onset of your menstrual period. 

When you arrive, report to X-ray Central Reception (Area 4) or X-ray North.  The examination will be carried out by a team of staff, including a radiologist, radiographer and nurse. Your stomach must be completely empty for the examination to be successful. When you arrive you will be taken to a cubicle and asked to change into an x-ray gown.

You will then be called into the x-ray room and asked to stand in front of the x-ray machine. You may be given a teaspoon of granules followed by a mouthful of tart lemon flavoured juice. This will fizz in your stomach, producing gas, which will allow all parts to it to be seen clearly. You will then be asked to swallow some barium liquid and the images of your stomach will be viewed on the television screen by the radiologist whilst you do so. A series of x-ray pictures will be taken with you moving into different positions (including some lying down). You may be given an injection to relax the stomach.

This process usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Once the examination is completed you will be taken back to your cubicle to get dressed. You may then go home and eat and drink normally. Your bowel motions may be a little paler than usual - this is quite normal and nothing to worry about. You may also be a little constipated, so drink plenty of fluids to help relieve this.

The results of your examination will not be given to you on the same day. To receive these results you will need an appointment see either the consultant who referred you, or your own GP. You will be told after the examination which of these doctors you need to see.

A sample video clip of what a barium swallow may look like is shown below.