HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

What is a Swallowing Study?

Support Forums
>
GERD & Acid Reflux
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 7/11/2008 4:24 AM (GMT 0)
I've already had a "barium swallow,"  and a "modified barium swallow" (in addition to PH testing, manometry, endoscopy, and colonoscopy)...After all of that, and after suffering for 2 years, I thought that I have had ALL the tests!

But since I STILL have food getting stuck in my throat, and the lump feeling..i was told that i have to get a swallowing study down.  Does anyone know what this is?  Apparently it ALSO involves drinking barium but it's not a barium swallow??  What does it entail and what will it measure that no other tests I had done measure?

Posted 7/11/2008 2:01 PM (GMT 0)

friendlygal,

I think you may be referring to this test...........

In a videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS), the patient swallows a variety of liquids and foods mixed with barium, as a radiologist takes video X-rays of the mouth and throat. These images show how food passes from the mouth through the throat and into the esophagus. They may also reveal aspiration -- foreign matter entering the lungs -- if barium enters the windpipe. Aspiration puts patients at risk for lung infections.

A VFSS takes about 10 minutes to complete. It is not painful and no preparation is necessary.

Be sure to have your PCP exlain in detail just what the swallow study test he referred to is and how it is done.

I hope this info is helpful.

Take care.
Kitt

<!-- End body copy -->
Posted 7/11/2008 2:53 PM (GMT 0)

Thanks, kitt

That was helpful.  It's my GI doctor who referred me.  He just wrote "Swallowing Study."  Sound like it's the one...

The only problem is that I have had an AWFUL reaction to being given too much levaquin (from another doctor).  I had a couple of seizures and wasn't able to walk for months.  My muscles are STILL stiff...AND...I've had an INSANE amount of X-rays..Therefore, a doctor told me to stay away from x-rays for now...

I guess that if the swallowing study is necessary, then I should take it, anyway..

✚ New Topic ✚ Reply