Barium Swallow

A barium swallow is an x-ray test that produces internal images of the esophagus. Before the test can take place, patients drink a liquid barium that is often fruit flavored. During the test, you will be asked to swallow while x-rays are taken. Barium swallow tests can diagnose abnormalities such as:

• tumors
  
• hiatus hernias
  
• reflux from the stomach
  
• swallowing disorders