Barium Enema

A barium enema is an X-ray exam of your rectum and colon. This test helps your healthcare provider find problems such as blockages, inflammatory bowel disease, polyps, or other problems.

Before your test

• Your healthcare provider will give you detailed instructions on how to get ready for this test.

• On the day before your test, you will likely be told not to eat and to drink only clear liquids. Don't eat or drink anything after midnight the night before. But you may take your regularly prescribed oral medicine in the morning with a small amount of water.

• You will also be told to take a laxative or an over-the-counter enema preparation. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions.

Let the technologist know about the following before the test

• Symptoms you’re having

• Allergies

• Any past surgery or recent illness

• Medicines you take

• If you're pregnant or think you may be

Risks of the test

• Radiation exposure

• Allergic reaction to contrast

• Gastrointestinal tract obstruction

During your test

• A tube is inserted into your rectum.

• Your colon is filled with barium. This is a liquid that allows the radiologist to see what the inside of your bowel looks like by using X-ray images. Air is also often placed into your bowel through the tube to allow for better visualization.

• You will be asked to move into different positions and hold your breath while X-rays are taken.

• Pressure may be applied to your belly to get the best images.

• The last X-ray will be taken after you go to the bathroom.

• The test usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes.

X-rays will be taken during your exam.

After your test

• Drink plenty of water to relieve constipation you may have after the test.

• Your stool may look white or light for 1 to 2 days.

• Your healthcare provider will discuss the test results with you during a follow-up visit or over the phone.

• Your next appointment is:

When to call your healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

• Belly (abdominal) pain

• Blood in your stool

• No bowel movement for more than 2 days or unable to pass gas

• Dizziness or weakness

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider