Prior to Test

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to latex or barium.

Your intestines must be empty before this test. Your doctor may ask you to:

• Eat a clear liquid diet.
• Take laxatives.
• Use a warm water or over-the-counter enema.
• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.

Description of Test

A well-lubricated enema tube will be gently inserted into your rectum. You may be given an injection to relax the rectum. Barium will be inserted through the tube. A small balloon at the end of the tube will be inflated. This balloon keeps the barium inside. You will be moved several times to make sure the barium coats the walls of the colon and rectum. A small amount of air will be inserted through the tube. A series of x-rays will be taken. After this, the enema tube will be removed.

After Test

After the test, you:

• Will be shown to the bathroom to pass the barium and may be given a laxative
• May feel mild-to-moderate abdominal cramping and may need to wait before driving home
• Can return to your regular diet unless your doctor tells you not to
• Can return to regular activities when you feel ready
• Should drink lots of fluids—barium can cause dehydration
• May have white or gray stools for 2-3 days after the test due to the barium

How Long Will It Take?

About 1-2 hours

Will It Hurt?

You may feel discomfort when the enema tube is inserted. You may have bloating and severe cramping during the test. You may also feel as if you need to move your bowels.

Results

It may take up to a few days to receive your test results. If the results are abnormal, your doctor will recommend:

• Follow-up testing
• Treatment options