A barium swallow is a fluoroscopy test used to look at how the throat and esophagus handle swallowed contrast.
Doctors usually request this test for difficulty swallowing, repeated choking, food coming back up, longstanding reflux symptoms, or a feeling that something is stuck in the throat or chest.
It helps show narrowing, pouches, abnormal movement, reflux, and whether swallowed material is going down the right way.
It helps show narrowing, pouches, reflux patterns, aspiration, or abnormal swallowing mechanics.
The result may guide gastroenterology, ENT, swallowing therapy, or further endoscopic evaluation.
This entry explains the procedure. Before you go, read the longer prep guide or find a centre that performs it.
