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allowing the physician to see hernias, ulcers, blockages, abnormal growths and even the movements of the organs during the
procedure. This procedure is also called a Barium swallow.
The type of x-ray machine used, a fluoroscope, differs from a typical x-ray in that motion is seen as it occurs, allowing the physician
to observe what happens under a variety of situations. The patient can be moved to various positions, mimicking the normal
positions a body takes during daily activities. For instance, with the patient lying down, lying on one side or the other, etc., the doctor
has more opportunity to find the cause, as well as the treatments, that will help relieve symptoms.
The upper GI series requires some preparation on the part of the patient, which is explained in more detail under Barium Esophogram
. Adverse effects are infrequent, making this a good choice for initial diagnosis.