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Patient Prep Nothing to eat or drink after midnight. How is the test performed? The person is asked to undress and put on a hospital gown. The technologist will then take a regular X-ray of the abdomen. Next, the individual drinks a large glass of a chalky As the barium flows through the digestive tract, multiple X-rays are taken with the person in different positions. This is so the entire gut can be seen from all sides. During the test, the person taking the X-rays may press on the individual's stomach with a lead glove or paddle. X-rays are usually done every 15 or 30 minutes to follow the dye as it moves through the digestive tract. When the barium reaches the large bowel, the test is finished. After the test After the examination, you can resume a regular diet and take orally administered medications unless told otherwise by your doctor. The barium may color stools gray or white for 48 to 72 hours after the procedure. Sometimes the barium can cause temporary constipation, which is usually treated by an over-the-counter laxative. |
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liquid called barium. The barium coats internal structures and makes them show up on the X-ray film. Sometimes, the person is also asked to swallow a carbonated powder to produce gas in the stomach. This helps provide contrast to the barium and makes visualization easier. 
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