Common Tests For Hiatal Hernias
Barium Swallow (Barium X-ray)—This test requires the patient to drink a chalky liquid that contains a small amount of barium. The barium shows up clearly on an x-ray, allowing the radiologist to clearly see if a portion of the stomach is out of place in the chest cavity.
Endoscopy (EGD)—This procedure is done by a physician. A thin tube with a light and camera built in, called an endoscope, is inserted into the mouth and down the throat. It is gently pushed down the esophagus where the doctor can see the inside of both the esophagus and the stomach. This test is often performed to look for damage caused by gastric reflux, commonly known as heartburn.
