To evaluate the oesophagus, the stomach and duodenum for the presence of conditions such as hiatus hernia, ulcers, gastritis or tumours.

You should not eat or drink for at least 6 hours prior to your examination.

This takes approximately 15-20 minutes. You will be given a small intravenous injection to relax the stomach and be asked to drink small pill to distend your stomach with gas. Once you have had this you will be given a cupful of barium and several X-rays will be taken in varying positions.

You may continue normal activity. As the Barium may be constipating, a mild laxative should be taken.