Let Us Help You
- Search
Symptoms Indicating the Need for a Barium Enema
A healthcare provider may recommend a barium enema if a patient experiences symptoms such as:
Chronic diarrhea
Persistent constipation
Abdominal pain
Changes in bowel habits
Rectal bleeding
Unexplained weight loss
Anemia
This procedure is commonly used for diagnosing :
Inflammatory bowel disease
Colon cancer screening
Crohn’s disease
Ulcerative colitis
Diverticulosis (formation of small pouches in the digestive tract)
Before performing a barium enema, healthcare providers must evaluate certain contraindications:
Allergy to barium: If a patient has previously had an allergic or hypersensitive reaction to barium, the procedure may trigger an anaphylactic response, including difficulty breathing or facial swelling.
Recent upper GI exams: If a patient has recently undergone a barium swallow or upper GI series, the remaining barium could interfere with the procedure, potentially leading to false results.
Pregnancy: Barium enema is not recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of radiation exposure to the fetus.
Latex allergies: Some tools used in the procedure, such as catheters and enema tips, may contain latex. If a patient has a latex allergy, alternative tools should be used.
Bowel perforation risk: Patients with bowel perforations or at high risk for this complication should avoid the procedure, as it can exacerbate the condition.
Severe constipation or fecal impaction: Patients with these conditions may have their symptoms worsened by the procedure, leading to additional blockages or complications.
Unstable health conditions: Those with uncontrolled hypertension, severe cardiovascular disease, or recent heart attacks may be at increased risk of complications during the procedure.
Single-Contrast Barium Enema: Only barium sulfate is used as the contrast agent, outlining the colon’s inner lining to reveal its shape, position, and size.
Double-Contrast Barium Enema (Air-Contrast Barium Enema): Involves both barium sulfate and air to distend the colon, allowing better visualization of its inner surface. This method is useful for detecting small polyps and lesions.
Preparing for a Barium Enema
Prior to the procedure, the patient should provide a thorough medical history. The doctor will give specific instructions regarding diet and bowel preparation.
1–3 days before the procedure: Drink clear fluids like water, fruit juice, tea, and broth. Avoid solid foods, dairy, and drinks with colored dyes.
Avoid high-fiber foods such as whole grains, raw fruits, vegetables, and seeds, as they can leave residue in the colon that may interfere with imaging.
The day before the test: Ensure adequate fluid intake unless restricted due to other health issues.
Laxatives or water enemas may be recommended to clear the colon.
During the Test:
The patient will lie on an X-ray table while a tube is inserted into the anus to introduce the barium sulfate contrast into the colon.
The barium highlights the colon for X-ray images.
The patient may be given medication to ease cramping.
The procedure typically takes 30-45 minutes for a single-contrast study, and up to an hour for a double-contrast study.
After the Test:
Once the procedure is complete, the tube is removed, and the patient will be asked to expel the barium.
Additional X-rays may be taken after evacuation.
The patient can resume a regular diet and increase fluid intake to help eliminate remaining barium from the system.
Managing Discomfort and Preparation Tips:
Although the preparation and bowel cleansing can be uncomfortable, it is important to follow the instructions carefully. Patients may experience soreness or cramping during the procedure. It is also a time-consuming test, so it is advisable to bring something to pass the time and arrange transportation home.
Risks:
While complications are rare, they may include:
Severe constipation
Barium granulomas
Bowel perforation, especially in patients with existing gastrointestinal conditions
Cramping, bloating, or fullness during the procedure
Minor risks such as perforation during tube insertion, although healthcare professionals take precautions to minimize this.