Barium Enema
Having a barium enema
Source: NHS
In this topic (7)
When you arrive at hospital, you'll be asked to change into a hospital gown.
You can take someone with you to the hospital, but they're not usually allowed into theX-ray room.
During the test:
- you'll be asked to lie on your side on an X-ray table, and an injection of a medication called Buscopan may be given to prevent involuntary bowel movements
- a small, soft tube will be gently inserted a few centimetres into your bottom, where itwill remain throughout the test
- thebarium is passed through the tube and into yourbowel try to keep the muscles in your bottom tight to prevent it coming back out, but don't worry if some leaks out
- you may be asked to move around a bit to help the barium spread along your bowel, and airmay bepumped into your bowel to expand it and help push the barium around
- several X-rays will be taken with you in different positions
The whole process usually takes around 20-30 minutes.
Articles for Barium Enema
Are there any risks or side effects?
A barium enema is generally a very safe procedure, although there a few risks and side effects that you should be aware of. Theseinclude: laxative side effects side effects such as feeling sick,
Does a barium enema hurt?
Having a barium enema may be a bit embarrassing andunpleasant, but it shouldn't be painful. You'll probably feel uncomfortable when the air is pumped into your bowel during thetest similar to the fee
Having a barium enema
When you arrive at hospital, you'll be asked to change into a hospital gown. You can take someone with you to the hospital, but they're not usually allowed into theX-ray room. During the test: you
Introduction
Read about having a barium enema, including what you need to do to prepare, what happens during the test, and what happens afterwards.
Preparing for a barium enema
To ensure the X-ray images taken during a barium enema are clear, your bowel must be empty before the test. The hospital should send you instructions on what you need to do to prepare. You'll normall
What happens after a barium enema
When the test is finished, the tube will be removed from your bottom and you can go to the toilet to empty your bowels. Youshould be able to go home shortly afterwards, although it's a good idea to t
When barium enemas are used
Nowadays, barium enemas aren't carried out very often, as alternative tests such asa colonoscopy or computerised tomography (CT) scan areusually preferred. However, a barium enema can sometimes be