Barium is a white, dense, chalky substance that can be suspended in water and is visible on x-rays. You will drink a small quantity (half a cup) of barium during this examination. It is very safe, but you should be aware that it may cause mild constipation. Drinking water and eating a fibre-rich diet over the next few days may assist if this occurs.

As the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum are soft tissue structures, they are not usually seen on a plain x-ray. By drinking the barium this coats the inner lining of these areas, the Radiologist can see them clearly on the x-ray screen; and can watch the way the organs function during this study.

For the barium to adequately coat the lining of the stomach, the stomach needs to be empty. You will be asked to fast from food and drink for 6 hours before the examination. 

Female patients are advised to inform medical staff beforehand if they are pregnant or suspect they may be.

There is a consent form for this examination outlining the preparation, procedure, possible complications and aftercare. You will be asked to read through this, asked questions to ensure you are happy to continue with the procedure and lastly to sign the consent form.

A radiologist (a doctor) and a radiographer (an x-ray technician) will be present during the procedure. They will explain the process, so feel free to ask any questions if you're unsure.

You will be asked to undress to underpants and put on an x-ray gown.

The Radiologist will ask you to drink some barium mixed in water from a cup, it tastes chalky, but should not cause you any problems, while he/she takes images using the x-ray. You will be x-rayed standing and lying down. The images are seen on a TV monitor. You may be given an effervescent gas-producing mixture, which gently inflates the stomach so we can see the lining more clearly.

The Radiologist may also give you a small injection into a vein in your arm during the examination. This injection temporarily stops the stomach peristalsis (muscle movement) so we can take better x-rays. The injection also causes temporary blurred vision for approximately 20 minutes. If you do feel your vision is blurred, please wait until your eyes are clear before you drive your car.

The test usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes.

After the Radiologist has seen your x-rays and the test is completed, you can eat or drink normally.

The Radiologist will review the images and provide a written report to your referring doctor.

The barium can have a constipating effect, you must increase your fluid intake for three to four days to reduce the chance of constipation.