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Barium Swallow

What is a barium swallow?
A barium swallow or an upper GI series is a type of x-ray that looks at the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. You child will be asked to drink barium, a thick chalky liquid that is used to coat the lining of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).

Why does my child need a barium swallow?
A barium swallow was ordered if your child has any of the following symptoms:

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Weight loss
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Bloody stools
  • Blood in vomit

Can my child eat or drink before the test?
Your child must adhere to the following instructions:

  • Nothing to eat after midnight the day prior to the test
  • Children age 0 to 1 year of age: nothing to drink 4 hours prior to the test
  • Children age 1 to 3 years of age: nothing to drink 6 hours prior to the test
  • Children age 3 to 15 years of age: nothing to drink after midnight the day prior to the test

What will happen before the test?

  • Your child will be asked to remove their cloths and put on a hospital gown
  • You and your child will be taken into an x-ray room where you will see a TV screen and a table with a big camera
  • The test will begin with either your child standing up against the table or lying down on it, depending on your age.
  • Parents can stay with their child during the test.

What will happen during the test?

  • The radiologist will give your child a paper cup of barium. We can make this chocolate or strawberry
  • The lights in the room will be turned down when pictures are taken this will help the doctor see the TV screen better

What happens after the test?

  • After the doctor is satisfied with the pictures your child may get dressed and go home
  • Your child will be instructed to drink lots of fluids and go back to their normal diet unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider.

Remember – the barium will temporarily change the colour of your child’s stool. Have your child drink lots of fluids until the barium passes

Links
LHSC- Preparing for your test



REMINDER: This information is intended to provide general information and should not be used to base a diagnosis or treatment. Please consult the doctors about your specific condition and the approach for treatment.