On its own, an X-ray produces poor images of soft tissue.
The test is not a reliable means of diagnosis of rectal disorders.
It has a limited role following complex surgery.
Illustration by Cindy Chung, Verywell
Before the Test
The preparations for a barium enema are quite extensive.
The instructions need to be strictly followed to ensure minimal discomfort or optimal imaging.
Timing
When scheduling a barium enema, set aside at least two hours of your day.
Location
A barium enema is performed in a radiology unit at a hospital or a specialized testing facility.
The room will also have an enema stand with an enema tube.
A bathroom will be close by.
What to Wear
You will need to undress for the procedure.
Bring comfortable clothes that you dont mind staining in case you have some rectal leakage on the way home.
This requires a restricted diet, laxatives, and possibly an enema.
This is referred to asbowel preparation.
If you decide to douche, do not overly irrigate the bowel, as this can cause irritation.
You may also want to bring an extra pair of socks for when you walk in the X-ray room.
If your child is undergoing the procedure, bring a favorite toy or comfort item as a distraction.
If you are denied coverage for any reason, ask your insurer for a written reason for the denial.
you might then take the letter to your state insurance consumer protection office and ask for help.
Your healthcare provider should also intervene and provide additional motivation as to why the test is essential.
If you are uninsured, you might speak with the lab to see if there are monthly payment options.
Some independent labs even offer patient assistance programs with tiered pricing for low-income families.
You will then be asked to change into a gown.
Adigital rectal exammay also be performed.
As your colon fills with barium, you may feel the urge to have a bowel movement.
attempt to relax and hold it in, taking long, deep, slow breaths.
While the procedure may uncomfortable, it doesnt usually cause any overt pain.
This part of the exam can take anywhere from 10 to15 minutes to complete.
Throughout the Test
Once enough barium has been introduced into your colon, imaging begins.
This part of the procedure generally takes 15 to 20 minutes.
During the test, you may be asked to change positions to capture images from different angles.
Abdominal pressure and the urge to defecate are the most common complaints.
If spasms occur, you could accelerate your breathing by taking shallow, panting breaths.
Avoid “bearing down” or breathing with your diaphragm.
Doing so can make things worse.
If you have trouble keeping the fluid in, let the technician know.
Dont be embarrassed if you break wind or any fluid leaks out.
This is a common occurrence and one that the radiology team is more than prepared for.
When completed, the majority of the barium solution is removed through the tube.
If you are, you may be asked to sit quietly until the symptoms pass.
In most cases, you might drive yourself home after a barium enema.
Take it as instructed.
Thereafter, you could resume your regular diet and medication routine.
Make every effort to drink plenty of water for the next 24 hours.
Some people may also experience constipation, headache, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
These symptoms tend to be mild and resolve within a couple of days.
To lessen these side effects, drink plenty of fluids and eat foods high in insoluble fiber.
Diarrhea can be treated with over-the-counter products likeImodium (loperamide).
Use these products only as directed.
You may be experiencing barium impaction and need an enema.
The radiology report will detail both the expected and unexpected findings.
In the end, a lower GI study is but one of several tools used to make a diagnosis.
In the end, it is a nominally invasive technique with a low risk of complications.
Generally speaking, the benefits of a barium enema far outweigh the possible consequences.
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