An upper gastrointestinal or (GI) series is an X-ray test of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. The person swallows a barium mixture. Barium is a white, chalky substance that shows the digestive tract in clear contrast on X-ray. As the barium moves down, fluoroscopy shows the outlines of the organs and their movements. Fluoroscopy uses X-rays to show movement. Examiners also take still X-rays to record findings.

This test evaluates the following signs and symptoms:
* difficulty swallowing,
* spitting up food,
* heart burn or gnawing pain,
* diarrhea,
* unexplained weight loss, and
* gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.

It helps diagnose hiatal hernia, abnormal pouches, enlarged blood vessels, ulcers, tumors, and inflammatory disease. It can also aid the diagnosis of absorption and digestive movement disorders.

The person eats light meals for 2 or 3 days prior to the test. He or she fasts and avoids smoking after midnight before the test. The person must also stop many types of oral drugs and antacids. An upper GI series is a long test, lasting up to 6 hours. This is because the barium moves slowly through the small intestine. The person lies on an X-ray table that tilts in various positions. The barium is in a flavored drink like a milk-shake. Sometimes a small amount of air is also pumped into the stomach to clarify the image. Once the barium has entered the small intestine, examiners may take X-rays every 30 to 60 minutes. The test ends when the barium enters the large intestine. After the test, the person takes a laxative or enema to clear the system. His or her stool will be lightly colored as the barium passes for the next 24 to 72 hours.

An upper GI series is a relatively safe test. There is a slight chance of retention of barium. This may lead to obstruction or hardened stools. Individuals who already have obstruction or a puncture in the digestive tract should not have this test.

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