X-Ray Swallowing Study

With the goal of delivering the most current health information available, Mercy contracts with an external company to provide you trusted information regarding your health. Some of the content provided in this resource may suggest services or treatments not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with Mercy’s mission, values or ethical practices.
Main Content

Test Overview

A swallowing study is a test that shows what your throat and esophagus do while you swallow. The test uses X-rays in real time (fluoroscopy) and records what happens when you swallow. While you swallow, the doctor and speech pathologist watch a video screen.

For a swallowing study, you will swallow liquid mixed with a substance called barium. Or you might swallow solid foods coated with barium.

The barium shows the movements of your throat and esophagus on the X-ray while you swallow.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.