BARIUM SWALLOW  /  MEAL

Hospital Name and phone Numer

Dear  .................................................................,

 

Dr / Mr ......................................................... has asked us to perform an X-Ray examination of your stomach.  This is called a barium swallow and meal.

An appointment has been made for you on ................................. the ......................................

at ..........................am / pm.

For this examination you must not have anything to eat or drink for 6 hours before the appointment time.

Please come to X-Ray , which is located off *********, at the bottom end of the hospital site. There is a map enclosed showing you the department and areas to park. Vehicle access for disabled patients is possible via the staff entrance. (Press the button at the security barrier. See map for entrance and exit points.)

The examination is not at all painful. You will be required to swallow a little powder and water which will then produce some gas in your stomach. You will then be asked to drink another liquid which tastes quite pleasant. The progress of this barium liquid will be watched on a television monitor and X-Rays will be taken at intervals by the Consultant Radiologist (a doctor specialising in diagnosis using X-Rays) with the help of a Radiographer and possibly a Nurse.

The Radiologist may give you a small injection at the beginning of the examination (to slow the emptying of the stomach). If you suffer from Glaucoma please inform the Radiographer beforehand.

The examination should take about 15 minutes, however, you may be in the department for approximately 45 minutes. Afterwards, eat as you would normally, but for the first day increase your fluid intake to avoid being constipated.

The results will be sent to the Consultant / Doctor who requested your X-Ray.

If you are an Out-Patient you will be sent an appointment to be seen in the clinic.

If you have been sent by your GP., arrange an appointment in about two weeks to see Him / Her.

IF YOU ARE DIABETIC :-

1.         DO NOT COME ALONE. HAVE A RESPONSIBLE PERSON TO

            ACCOMPANY YOU.

2.            BRING YOUR MEDICATION AND APPROPRIATE FOOD WITH YOU.

3.         YOU MAY CONTACT THE DIABETIC SPECIALIST NURSE FOR FURTHER

                ADVICE ON YOUR  DIET / MEDICATION ON   0161 331 6443

 

IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO ATTEND PLEASE INFORM US AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

I hope that your visit to us will be pleasant. If you have any concerns or queries please feel free to telephone us on ***************