Barium swallow and meal Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, July 2009.
Answers to questions about barium swallow and meal
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- Is video fluoroscopy the same as a barium swallow?
- What will happen if my child needs a barium swallow and meal?
- Is it normal for my faeces to be white after a barium swallow and meal?
Is video fluoroscopy the same as a barium swallow?
Not exactly. Both tests use X-ray images to look at swallowing, but they give different information.
Explanation
A barium swallow involves recording short bursts of moving pictures and is good for showing up the lining of the oesophagus and stomach. Video fluoroscopy is similar in that you will be asked to drink a liquid containing a material that shows up on X-rays. The main difference is that the whole process of swallowing - from lips to stomach - is recorded in real time on video. It's particularly useful for problems with the nerves or muscles involved in swallowing. It may be used for young children who are having feeding problems, or for people who have had a stroke and are at risk of inhaling food or drink as they swallow.
As well as a radiographer and radiologist, one or two speech and language therapists will be present during a video fluoroscopy test to help explain what you need to do and to ensure that good images are recorded.
Sources
- Videofluoroscopy. Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust. www.rbht.nhs.uk, accessed 25 February 2009
- Leslie P, Carding P, Wilson J. Investigation and management of chronic dysphagia. BMJ 2003; 326:433-6
What will happen if my child needs a barium swallow and meal?
A barium swallow test is often carried out in babies if they are being tested for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). The barium swallow and meal tests are carried out in children and babies in much the same way as in adults.
Explanation
As with adults, your child's stomach and small bowel need to be empty before he or she has the test. However, usually children don't need to fast for as long as adults. How far ahead of the test your child needs to stop eating depends on his or her age, and may also vary between hospitals.
- Older children will generally not be able to eat anything on the day of the procedure, but will be able to drink clear fluids.
- Younger children will usually need to fast for two to three hours before the test.
- Babies can usually be fed for up to an hour before the test.
It's important that you follow the fasting instructions in your child's admission letter.
Your child will often be able to choose from a variety of flavourings (such as banana, strawberry or chocolate), which will be added to the barium liquid. Your child will be given the liquid either by a bottle with a teat, or a cup with or without a feeding spout.
You will usually be able to stay in the examination room with your child.
Sources
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) in infancy. GP Notebook. www.gpnotebook.co.uk, accessed 16 February 2009
- Information for children and families. Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust (GOSH) and UCL Institute of Child Health (ICH). www.ich.ucl.ac.uk, accessed 16 February 2009
Is it normal for my faeces to be white after a barium swallow and meal?
Yes, it's normal for barium to have this effect.
Explanation
Your faeces are likely to be white, or paler, for a day or so after a barium swallow and meal. This is completely normal and a sign that the barium is passing out of your system. If you're prone to constipation, you may need to take a laxative. Make sure you drink enough fluids.
In the first couple of days after having a barium swallow and meal, you may also find you need to flush the toilet more than usual after a bowel movement.
Sources
- Information for patients having a barium swallow and meal. The Royal College of Radiologists. www.rcr.ac.uk, accessed 23 September 2008 www.rcr.ac.uk, accessed 23 September 2008
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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: July 2009
Barium swallow and meal factsheet
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