Swallow Study

Since the ENT and allergist both cleared Elayne of physical abnormalities and food allergies, it was on to the next test for us - a swallow study.


A swallow study is conducted by a Speech Language Pathologist and Radiologist. Everyone was convinced this test would come back positive and we'd instantly know Elayne's issue. Her formula was mixed at various consistencies and combined with a barium mixture to show up on an x-ray machine. We watched as she swallowed and the SLP walked us through what was happening.


Then the results.


NORMAL.


What!? Normal!? How could it be normal? And not only normal, but she found no evidence of reflux either. Both issues were pretty much hypothesized to be the definite cause of the chronic cough and congestion. We have been giving Elayne massive doses of antacids because they have been convinced this was it.


But now it isn't.


I must admit, we were really hoping the test would come back abnormal. Arguably, a swallowing issue would have been the fastest, easiest, cheapest, shortest term diagnosis. We could have handled it. We could have followed recommendations and cleared up her issue ASAP. We would have had answers.


And now, we don't. No answers. Still coughing. Still sad for our baby. Still frustrating.


So what's next? Well, on to another doctor. This time we will be seeing a Pulmonologist on April 29th. We have no clue what they'll say or do. But hopefully this will give us answers and her relief. Maybe asthma? Maybe fluid in her lungs? Who knows. But hopefully we will finally find out.