Barium Swallow

Kitty's picture
Submitted by Kitty on Wed, 01/14/2009 - 21:17.
Name Of Test Or Operation: 
Barium Swallow
Other Names Test Or Operation Known By: 
Barium Meal, Barium Follow Through, Upper Gastrointestinal Series
Reason The Test Or Operation Was Carried Out: 
Gastro-oesophageal reflux (acid reflux) and other symptoms of gut problems
What Was Your Experience Of The Test/Operation: 
I was dreading the test as our son was only just 3 years old and i thought he'd be distressed. We were taken into a room where our son was asked to swallow a cup of barium liquid. Even though it tastes horrible (they didn't have a flavoured one) he drank it! i was amazed!! After a short wait, he was asked to lie on a bed/table whilst x-rays were taken from different angles. This bit did take a while and he had to keep changing positions but i was allowed to stay with him and could touch him and reassure him. i took a present to reward him the minute it was over. I also took his favourite food and drink for him to have afterwards as he had been nil by mouth for about 20 hours. My son coped extremely well with this test - i think i was more upset than him!
Next Steps: 
The test revealed Gastro-oesophageal reflux was still present and so we were referred to a paediatric gastroenterologist at Great Ormond Street hospital where they suspect our son has EGID (Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorder)
After Care: 
no after care needed. his poo's were a bit discoloured the next day though!
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