Help your child know what to expect if they need a sleep study.

Read on for details about common lab tests used to diagnose problems with the digestive system in children.

An upper endoscopy is a test that shows the inside of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This includes the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). The healthcare provider can do a biopsy, check for problems, or remove objects. The test normally takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

A colonoscopy is a test that lets a health care provider look inside the colon and rectum. A sigmoidoscopy is a shorter form of this test. Read on for details.

A modified barium swallow is used to test your child's ability to swallow. It uses barium, a substance that makes organs show more clearly on X-rays. This test may be suggested if your child has problems swallowing food. Read on to learn more.

An upper GI series is an X-ray exam of the upper digestive tract. Here's what you should know when your child needs this exam.

A barium enema is an X-ray exam of the lower digestive tract (colon and rectum). This exam is used to find problems such as narrowing), blockages, or tissue growths. Here's what you and your child can expect.

During an X-ray exam, a small amount of radiation is used to make pictures of bones and some internal organs. Read on to learn what to expect when your child needs an X-ray.

An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves to take pictures of abdominal organs. It's painless and noninvasive. It's often used to assess abdominal pain or to find problems like enlarged organs.

Most MRI tests take 30 to 60 minutes. Depending on the type of MRI your child is having, the test may take longer. Give yourself extra time to check your child in.