Patient education: Esophagram (The Basics)

What is an esophagram? — This is a test that uses X-rays to look at the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that moves food from the mouth to the stomach (figure 1).

For an esophagram, you typically drink a special liquid called "barium." This is a type of "contrast material." Then, the doctor takes an X-ray as the contrast material moves down your esophagus. This can show if there are any problems with your esophagus or how food and liquid travel to your stomach.

This test is sometimes called a "barium esophagram."

Why might I get an esophagram? — Your doctor might do an esophagram to find the cause of symptoms like:

●Trouble swallowing

●Pain when swallowing

●Feeling like food gets stuck in your throat

●Heartburn or acid reflux

How do I prepare for an esophagram? — The doctor or nurse will tell you if you need to do anything special to prepare. They will probably ask you not to drink or eat anything for a period of time before the test.

Your doctor will also ask you about your "health history." This involves asking you questions about any health problems you have or had in the past, past surgeries, and any medicines you take. Tell them about:

●Any allergies you have

●Whether you could be pregnant

What happens during an esophagram? — When it is time for the test:

●You will change into a hospital gown.

●The staff will help you get in the right positions. This is so pictures can be taken from different angles.

●You will swallow a drink that contains contrast material, usually barium. Barium is a thick, chalky substance. It is usually flavored to make it easier to drink.

●As you swallow, the doctor will take an X-ray. This lets them watch the barium go down your esophagus.

●The test usually takes about 30 minutes.

What happens after an esophagram? — You can go back to your normal activities after the test.

●You might feel bloated or have nausea for a short time.

●You will see barium in your bowel movements for a few days. This can make bowel movements look white or gray.

●You might also have constipation, which is when it is hard to have bowel movements. Drink plenty of water. This helps move the barium out of your body.

Your doctor will talk to you about when to expect your test results.

What are the risks of an esophagram? — Your doctor will tell you about all of the possible risks, and answer your questions. Getting an esophagram is usually very safe.

In general, exposure to radiation from imaging tests might very slightly raise your risk of developing cancer later in life. But a single X-ray only exposes you to a tiny amount of radiation. The overall risk increases if you have to get many X-rays or other radiation-based imaging tests over time.

More on this topic

Patient education: Dysphagia (The Basics)
Patient education: Esophageal stricture (The Basics)
Patient education: Achalasia (The Basics)
Patient education: Acid reflux and GERD in adults (The Basics)

Patient education: Achalasia (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Gastroesophageal reflux disease in adults (Beyond the Basics)