Besides cancer, a barium swallow X-ray can detect a variety of conditions, including:
- Esophageal strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus that can be caused by cancer or other conditions. - Hiatal hernias: Portions of the stomach pushing up through the diaphragm. - Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux that can lead to Barrett's esophagus, a precancerous condition. - Esophageal varices: Enlarged veins in the esophagus often caused by liver disease.
