Barium Swallow Preparation

Learn about the barium swallow exam: who will perform it, where it will be performed, and how long it will take.

• Home care: You may be asked to eat a low-fiber diet for 2-3 days before the barium swallow test. You will be asked not to eat or smoke after midnight before the exam.

• Before the barium swallow test: You will be placed in a hospital gown and told to remove all jewelry including body jewelry such as nipple and belly-button rings, dentures, hair clips, or other objects that might show up on an x-ray. You will receive a form requesting your consent to perform the test. Read this form carefully. You should make sure you understand the form and agree with it before signing it. Ask your doctor any questions you have before you sign the form.