What is a barium x-ray exam of the esophagus and stomach?

A barium x-ray exam is a procedure in which the doctor examines certain organs, in this case your esophagus and/or stomach, using a barium liquid and x-rays. Barium is a liquid that will show up on an x-ray image. A barium exam of these organs is also called an upper gastrointestinal (GI) barium study.

When is it used?

Reasons for doing this procedure are:

• bleeding

• problems swallowing

• abdominal pain

• suspected tumor in or near the GI tract.

Examples of alternatives are to choose not to have treatment or try other diagnostic studies, depending on the problem and your condition. You should ask your doctor about these choices.

How do I prepare for an upper GI barium study?

Follow the instructions provided by the doctor or nurse. The night before the procedure, eat a light meal such as soup and salad. Do not have anything to eat or drink the morning of the procedure.

What happens during the procedure?

You will drink a barium liquid. The x-ray technician will ask you to stand in front of an x-ray machine and later have you lie on an x-ray table. The technician will take x-ray images of the barium liquid going down your throat, into your stomach, and perhaps going on through your small intestine.

What happens after the procedure?

The radiologist may tell you what he or she found and send the complete report to the doctor. You should call your doctor in a few days to hear the whole report.

You can go home after the test is completed. You may be constipated from the barium. If so, you may need to take a laxative. Your stools may be light or white colored for the next few days.

Ask your doctor what other steps you should take and when you should come back for a checkup.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

This procedure will help the doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

• You could become constipated.

• You could inhale the barium into your lungs, which could cause breathing problems or pneumonia.

You should ask your doctor how these risks apply to you.

When should I call the doctor?

Call the doctor immediately if:

• Abdominal pain increases.

• Constipation cannot be relieved.

Call the doctor during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.

• You want to make another appointment.