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Barium Enema

What is a Barium Enema?

A Barium Enema is an x-ray exam of your colon used to detect abnormalities such as ulcers, polyps, and cancer. During the exam, liquid barium is inserted into your rectum and colon to improve the images taken by the x-ray.

How do I get ready for the test?

The day before the test you may only eat or drink plain coffee and tea without milk or sugar. You may also eat or drink apple juice, water and jell-o. The day before, drink plenty of water, at least 4 large glasses. At 1:00 p.m. the afternoon before your test drink 10 ounces of Magnesium Citrate and take 2 Dulcolax tablets. You can get these from your local pharmacy. At 5:00 p.m. in the evening the day before, take 2 more Dulcolax tablets. Please arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment and be sure to have a photo ID and your insurance information with you. If your physician gave you a written order please bring that with you as well.

During the test

A Technologist will help you on to the x-ray table. As you lie on your side, a lubricated tube will be placed into your rectum. The barium will flow through the tube and into your colon. You will feel the urge to have a bowel movement. The tube that is used to deliver the barium has a small balloon at its tip that will keep the barium from draining out. You may be asked to turn and maintain various positions during the exam. This is to ensure that the whole colon is coated with the barium and the radiologist can view the colon from different angles. Air may also be slowly introduced through the same tube to help the barium thoroughly coat the colon. After the colon is coated with barium, a series of x-rays will be taken. Pressure may also be applied to your belly to get the best images.

After the test

After the images are complete you will be helped to a restroom to empty your bowel as much as you can. You may resume normal means and drink plenty of water to relieve possible constipation. Your stool may appear white or light for a day or two. Your test results will be reviewed by the radiologist and forwarded to your physician.

Questions or Concerns

If you have any other questions or concerns you may call Berger Health System Radiology department at (740) 420-8248. You will be put in touch with someone who can answer your questions.