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, a mild headache and bloating are common, but shouldn't last long
- barium side effects barium is usually harmless, but it can cause an upset stomach or constipation,and itcan cause an allergic reaction in very rare cases
- radiation exposure you'll be exposed to asmall amount of radiation during the test;this is about the equivalent to what you would receive naturally from the environment over three years(for more information, see GOV.UK: patient dose information )
- bowel perforation there's a risk of a small hole developing inyour bowel as a result of the procedure, but thisisvery rare
Your doctor can help you weigh up the risks of the procedure against the benefits of identifying any problem in your bowel.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dez 2018
Introduction
Read about having a barium enema, including what you need to do to prepare, what happens during the test, and what happens afterwards.
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
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
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
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
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
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,
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