Dysphagia is a term that is used to describe difficulties of swallowing. Dysphagia may be seen temporarily or may be a long term problem. The severity of the condition also varies depending on the underlying cause. A swallow study (also referred to as barium swallow) is an investigation that is usually used to determine the extent of the problem as well as the cause.
The causes of dysphagia are many. They include, for instance, infections that may be bacterial, fungal or viral. Infections often result in swelling of the pharynx which subsequently causes difficulties in swallowing. The difficulty in this case is mostly temporary. Another major group of conditions is cancer. Cancers cause obstruction as the growths project into the esophagus. Dysphagia that is due to cancer is usually progressive.
It is not every person with a swallowing problem that needs to undergo the study. The candidate needs to be carefully selected based on their medical history and the findings of their physical examination. If it is obvious that the cause of the problem is an infection then there is rarely a need to have this test. On the other hand, if a growth is suspected, then one must have it.
As is the case with many forms of medical investigations, there is a need for one to be taken through some form of preparation. The doctor will give you some instructions regarding your diet a day or two before the procedure is carried out. They will also explain to you what exactly is carried out and obtain your consent to proceed with the investigation. One is required to eliminate fiber from their diet during the preparation stage.
An overnight fast is requirement to ensure that your stomach is empty as the study is being carried out. The test itself relies on X-rays to project an image of the esophagus onto a film. This means that you will be required to remove jewelry that could potentially interfere with results. Such will include, for instance, neck laces and hair clips. The main areas that are subjected to the rays are the neck and chest regions.
For the barium swallow test to be successful, one will be required to drink a special type of drink. This drink is known as barium sulfate (hence the name of the test). The liquid has special properties in that it is radiopaque. This means that the X-rays cannot penetrate the liquid and instead cast a shadow onto the film. The outline of the esophagus as the barium moves towards the stomach is generated.
The results will be interpreted by the radiologist (a specialist in imaging studies) before you take them back to your primary doctor. The mode of treatment to be adopted will largely depend on the findings. In some instances, there may be a need to have additional tests such as endoscopy. Referrals to other specialists such as ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeons and oncologists is not uncommon.
This test is considered safe. There are very few side effects seen among persons that are subjected to the study. Examples of side effects may include constipation and a persistent chalky white color of stool in the first few days after the test. These do not usually require any intervention as they resolve in a matter of days. Allergic reactions are rare but they have been reported in a few patients.
The causes of dysphagia are many. They include, for instance, infections that may be bacterial, fungal or viral. Infections often result in swelling of the pharynx which subsequently causes difficulties in swallowing. The difficulty in this case is mostly temporary. Another major group of conditions is cancer. Cancers cause obstruction as the growths project into the esophagus. Dysphagia that is due to cancer is usually progressive.
It is not every person with a swallowing problem that needs to undergo the study. The candidate needs to be carefully selected based on their medical history and the findings of their physical examination. If it is obvious that the cause of the problem is an infection then there is rarely a need to have this test. On the other hand, if a growth is suspected, then one must have it.
As is the case with many forms of medical investigations, there is a need for one to be taken through some form of preparation. The doctor will give you some instructions regarding your diet a day or two before the procedure is carried out. They will also explain to you what exactly is carried out and obtain your consent to proceed with the investigation. One is required to eliminate fiber from their diet during the preparation stage.
An overnight fast is requirement to ensure that your stomach is empty as the study is being carried out. The test itself relies on X-rays to project an image of the esophagus onto a film. This means that you will be required to remove jewelry that could potentially interfere with results. Such will include, for instance, neck laces and hair clips. The main areas that are subjected to the rays are the neck and chest regions.
For the barium swallow test to be successful, one will be required to drink a special type of drink. This drink is known as barium sulfate (hence the name of the test). The liquid has special properties in that it is radiopaque. This means that the X-rays cannot penetrate the liquid and instead cast a shadow onto the film. The outline of the esophagus as the barium moves towards the stomach is generated.
The results will be interpreted by the radiologist (a specialist in imaging studies) before you take them back to your primary doctor. The mode of treatment to be adopted will largely depend on the findings. In some instances, there may be a need to have additional tests such as endoscopy. Referrals to other specialists such as ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeons and oncologists is not uncommon.
This test is considered safe. There are very few side effects seen among persons that are subjected to the study. Examples of side effects may include constipation and a persistent chalky white color of stool in the first few days after the test. These do not usually require any intervention as they resolve in a matter of days. Allergic reactions are rare but they have been reported in a few patients.
About the Author:
When you are looking for information about a swallow study, come to our web pages online today. More details can be seen at http://www.swallowstudy.com now.
