Hernia, hiatus - Diagnosing a hiatus hernia

A hiatus hernia can usually be diagnosed after an endoscopy or an X-ray. Your GP will make an appointment for you to have this done in hospital.

Endoscopy

During an endoscopy the inside of your body is directly examined using an endoscope (a long, thin flexible tube that has a light source and video camera at one end), which sends images to an external monitor.

The endoscope will be inserted into your mouth and down your throat to look for any problems. The procedure is usually done while you are awake and you may be given a sedative to help you to relax.

Barium meal X-ray

The barium meal X-ray, also called the barium swallow test, is one of the most effective ways of identifying a hiatus hernia.

As part of the test you will be asked to drink some barium solution. Barium is a non-toxic chemical that shows up clearly on an X-ray. Once the barium moves down into your digestive system a series of X-rays will be taken to identify any problems.

If you need to have a barium meal X-ray, you will not be able to eat or drink anything for at least six hours before the procedure so that your stomach and duodenum (top of the small intestine) are empty. You may be given an injection to relax the muscles in your digestive system.

You will be given a white, chalky liquid containing barium to drink while lying down. This means your specialist will be able to see your stomach on an X-ray monitor more easily, as well as any ulcers or abnormal growths. Your bed may be tipped slightly during the test so that the barium fills all the areas of your stomach.

A barium swallow usually takes about 15 minutes to perform. Afterwards you will be able to eat and drink as normal, although you may need to drink more water to help flush the barium out of your system.

You may feel slightly sick after a barium meal X-ray and the barium may cause constipation. Your stools may also be white for a few days afterwards as the barium passes through your system.