Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

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brianap 05/20/2010

The swallow evaluation already showed some weakness on one side of my throat. It is not causing me any major issues, just feels funny and I have to think about swalling sometimes. No choking or anything scary like that. It got slightly worse so Dr suggested a barium swallow test. I'm just wondering if it worth arrangng a babysitter and taking the time to go down there. Has anyone done it? Did it reveal any more and useful information? Also what was it like. I read some descriptions and it sounded kind of long and potentially uncomfortable. Also, how did the barium affect you during and after the test?

thanks

deleted_user 05/21/2010

I haven't had the test, but here I what I have decided...I need to know exactly what the benefit is to every test I take from now on. What do I gain? Is there going to be something that will be something I want as a solurion to the problem?

I am a little tired of things that tell me what is wrong, but there is nothing they can do. If it is not going to lead to anything but an addition to the list of things that are wrong with me, I don't want it.

And the other thing is that while I appreciate the advice and comments on the board, I want my doctors to answer all of the things you listed, and then I can get help here. But I am tired of suggestions from them and I leave with too many questions about what they have suggested. I guess you could say I have a little less patience...oh, well, I have MS!

I hope someone here can answer specifically about this. I have some issues with swallowing and gagging, so if there is something to be learned by having this test, I will be interested. I said no a while back.

pj22 05/21/2010

I had that test done years ago pre ms time... i did not have any problems with the barium-after the test i had to drink a lot of water that day to flush it out of my system. I just remember standing there infront of a xray type machine-them handing my a cup full of this stuff-careful they hand it to you it is very heavy. and then having to drink it slowly and do not burp or clear your throat otherwise test is invalid.

Did they find anything? No, nothing wrong with my throat.
It really was not that uncomfortable-just weird
Good luck with whatever your decision is.. Maybe just get it done and be over it?

deleted_user 05/22/2010

im so sorry this is late i just came across this i have ALOT of swallowing problems in fact i just had the test done this past week wednesday. i have to have it done every 6 months cuz my throat tightens and they need to stretch it. ive had to have the heimlich like twice so its pretty scary shit. but the barium no big deal u have any qestions bout the test ask me ive had it like 6 times since ms hope u get this in time good luck.

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