This test will take pictures of the upper portion of your gastrointestinal tract (sometimes this test is called a barium swallow). Doctors use the pictures we take with an X-ray machine to see what your body does after you swallow your food. Usually, a doctor orders this test for a patient who has had stomach aches or throws-up frequently. This test will allow the doctor to find out what is making you feel sick and to make sure you are healthy.

This test usually asks you to be ready before arriving at Oregon Imaging Centers. Parents should check with our scheduling department or physician. Usually, we ask that infants and toddlers not eat or drink anything for three hours, prior to their test. We request that older children not eat or drink anything for eight hours before their test.

When you arrive at Oregon Imaging Centers, you and your parents will check in at the reception desk. You'll find televisions, magazines, puzzles and games in our waiting room. Just before your exam, you will change into special pajamas.

When it's time to begin, the technologist who will take your picture, will bring you and your mom or dad into a room with an examination table and an X-ray camera. You will see the X-ray machine's camera next to the table.

The technologist will start by taking a picture of your tummy. After the first picture, the technologist will give you something to drink that is thick and similar to a milkshake. Usually we have flavors like chocolate, banana or strawberry. Be sure to ask the technologist what flavors you can choose from.

You may have to lie on your side, back and stomach while we take your picture. Before each picture, the technologist will ask you to take a sip of your milkshake. Remember to take big sips! If you watch the TV screen when you take a sip, you will see the drink go down the long tube to your stomach! After the doctor is finished looking at the pictures, you are all done!

**A reminder to moms who are pregnant or who might be pregnant: Please bring another adult with you to accompany your child during the procedure. We will ask that you watch the procedure from a shielded area to protect your unborn baby from X-rays. **