A barium swallow (also called a contrast esophagram), is a series of x-rays of your esophagus. For the test, you will drink a barium-containing liquid, which coats the inside of the esophagus and makes its shape and contours appear on x-rays. As the liquid moves from the mouth down to the esophagus, the physician can assess any narrowing, enlargement or abnormalities. If you are an adult patient, you are allowed to eat and drink before this exam. You may also take any medications you need before the exam as part of your regular schedule. Please bring in any food or drinks that are particularly difficult, as you will be asked to eat and drink during the exam and it will be helpful to see what is troublesome.
An Update Regarding Seasonal Illnesses
To help prevent the spread of seasonal respiratory illnesses, we strongly encourage all visitors to wear a mask while in ambulatory clinics or inpatient units. Surgical masks are available at hospital and clinic entrances. Patients with respiratory illnesses should also wear masks. Thank you for helping protect our patients, staff, and community.
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