The doctor said the barium swallow didn't show anything. He said based on my symptoms I have reflux. He told me to double up on my Prilosec and raise my my bed 4-6". When I described more of my symptoms he said it sounds like a hiatal hernia, even though the UGI didn't show it. I have to go back in 4 weeks and if the symptoms persist, he's sending me for an endoscopy.

What does the barium swallow test supposed to diagnose. Is it better to have that before an Endoscopy? I'm glad you got that test over with and I hope you feel better soon.

I have no idea if it's better or not. This is the first time I've ever had to do any of this. I guess it's the more non-invasive test. My doctor told me it shows any pockets in your esophagus and it's supposed to show any hiatal hernias. I don't know if there is anything else they can see with the barium swallow.

Some say barium swallow is pretty much worthless... if you really have that much pain.. go for the endo...it's the MRI of upper gastro problems