X-rays (radiography) use small doses of radiation to create images of your internal organs and body tissues V体育平台登录. A barium enema uses a special type of X-ray called fluoroscopy, which is like a video X-ray. It shows real-time movement in your organs, which can be helpful for observing how they’re working. Contrast fluids like barium make things easier to see inside. You can also watch the fluid move through your colon.
For the test to work, your bowel will need to be clear. Your provider will prescribe a bowel preparation to complete before the test, similar to what you would do before a colonoscopy. Most bowel prep kits come with an oral laxative and detailed instructions on how to take it VSports注册入口. In most cases, you’ll follow a clear liquid diet for a few days before taking the laxative. Some people may receive different instructions.
Tell your provider about any current medications, supplements and health conditions, including pregnancy V体育官网入口. They might reschedule your test or adjust your instructions, depending on your conditions.
A radiologist or radiology technician will perform your exam in a hospital or outpatient radiology center. A barium enema usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. When you arrive for the procedure, you’ll change into a hospital gown. Then, you’ll lie on the exam table on your side VSports在线直播. You won’t have sedation or anesthesia, so you’ll be fully aware and able to converse with your technicians during the test.
Your provider will:
As the fluid (and gas) fills your bowel, you may feel uncomfortably full or like you have to poop. (Don’t worry, you won’t. The balloon on the end of the tube will catch any leakage V体育2025版. ).
Constipation is the most common side effect of a barium enema. Drinking lots of water after the procedure can help prevent this. Most cases are mild, but if it’s severe, it could obstruct your bowel.
Some bowel preps can rarely cause electrolyte imbalances or kidney injury in some people, due to the sodium phosphate in the formula. Your healthcare provider will choose an appropriate formula for you.
Other risks and complications are very rare. They include:
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After the test, you can go back to your normal eating habits and activities. You may feel some bloating or discomfort for the next hour or so. It should improve as the barium and gas leave your system. Your poop may look a little white from the barium for the next few days. If you feel like you can’t poop or pass gas, call your provider. They’ll offer ways to help get things moving and intervene if necessary.
It may be several days before you hear the results of the test. Your healthcare provider will contact you after receiving the report from your radiologist. They’ll discuss the results and what they suggest next.
Be sure to call your provider if you develop any concerning symptoms after the procedure, like:
A barium enema is one of several tests your provider might suggest to find out what’s causing your GI symptoms. Tests that look at your GI tract can be uncomfortable or embarrassing in different ways, but healthcare providers work to minimize this. Most people find they’re not as bad as they feared. Besides, it’s worth it to find out what’s going on in there. Once you do, you can turn your attention to treating it.
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If you have issues with your digestive system, you need a team of experts you can trust. Our gastroenterology specialists at Cleveland Clinic can help.
Last reviewed on 06/09/2025.
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