I have an esophogram scheduled for March 9. Is this what some refer to as a swallow test and what should I expect? They will not be sticking anything down my throat will they? The way I understand it is I drink something and get an Xray which sounds easy enough. Then if the esophogas needs opened up they will stick something down my throat.

That is the same day that they will start my PT for my neck muscles that are shrinking too. I am now the incredible shrinking woman. Te he

Patty

Hi, an esophogram or barium swallow is done by the Radiologist with the Technologist helping. The Radiologist will watch during fluoro as you swallow various thicknesses of barium. Sometimes they will have you hold it in your mouth and then tell you to swallow as they take a video from the front and sideways. Then usually you lie down and drink some thinner barium on your tummy as they check the esophogus from mouth to stomach. Most Docs have you turn on your back and check for reflux. They may even give you some water for that. Sometimes we give "pills" or tablets made of barium to check for strictures and sometimes bread that has barium paste on it. So you may see all types of barium, none of which tastes good but just keep reminding yourself that it doesn't last long. A "modified barium swallow" is done by the Radiologist and speech pathologist with all different types of foods and liquids laced with barium. Very important... drink lots of fluids after the test for about 2 days. We've been known to pave sidewalks with the barium. LOL. Good luck. I had problems after RT with esophogitis and I just finished PT for the neck muscle thing. It is soooo much better now, my favorite part was the soft massage and accupressure and the moist heat. I also had accupuncture which helped.