A Modified Barium Swallow test is a highly routine form of testing designed to diagnose swallowing disorders, or dysphagia. Despite the simplicity of these tests, patients often have hesitations about the actual testing process and want to know what they can do to ensure their MBS test goes smoothly. If you are scheduled for a Modified Barium Swallow test in the near future, there are a few simple steps you can take to prepare:
- Learn more about the Modified Barium Swallow test – Knowing what will occur during the testing process may ease some of your fears. When you come aboard our state-of-the-art traveling medical van, we will have you drink a solution containing barium and then track the path of the barium using an x-ray to get a better feel for exactly where the swallowing difficulty lies.
- Home preparations—Depending on your health care provider, you may be asked to consume a low-fiber diet for two or three days before the scheduled exam. Additionally, you might also be asked to refrain from eating after midnight the day before your scheduled MBS test.
- Before the test –If a consent form is given to you before the Modified Barium Swallow test, read the form carefully and please let us know if you have any questions. We will do our best to provide as much information as we can so you feel comfortable and confident moving forward. We also ask that before the test, you remove any jewelry, hair clips, dentures, or other items that might show up during the x-ray.