How to Get a Barium Enema to Test for Colitis

Since many bowel diseases, of which colitis is one, have similar symptoms, it's often necessary to do further tests to make a definitive diagnosis. People who are suspected to have colitis often need to get a barium enema to help the doctor further visualize the large intestine. The test involves filling the colon with a radiological barium solution and then taking x-rays of the large intestine.

Things You'll Need

• Friend to accompany you
• Liquid diet
• Bowel preparation kit

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Instructions

Prepare to Get a Barium Enema

• 1

  Cleanse your large intestine thoroughly beginning 1 to 3 days prior to the day of the barium enema. Since your colon must be entirely free of all fecal matter, your doctor will probably ask you to stick with a clear liquid diet for those few days. A clear liquid diet includes: gelatin, ice pops, non-carbonated drinks, black tea or coffee and beef or chicken broth.

• 2

  Use the bowel preparation kit your doctor has provided or asked you to get. The day before the exam you will need to take a laxative like magnesium citrate that, though uncomfortable, will help empty your colon. Along with the laxative you may have to use an enema to ensure that there is no more stool in your intestine.

• 3

  Bring someone with you for moral support and to drive you home. Though it's not required that you have someone to drive you home, you may experience significant discomfort caused by gas in your intestine and prefer not to drive.

Get a Barium Enema

• 4

  Arrive at the doctor's office or medical center a little early to complete any last minute paperwork. You will need to inform the staff if you're pregnant, allergic to latex or have had a bad reaction to barium in the past, as these are all barriers to performing a barium enema safely.

• 5

  Remove any metal items you are wearing, such as earrings, glasses, necklaces or a watch. Metal items can interfere with the X-ray portion of the test. At this time you will also be expected to change into a gown and will be brought into the imaging room.

• 6

  Turn on your side as directed and take deep, slow breaths as the radiologist inserts the enema tip and slowly fills your colon with barium solution. You will feel a strong urge to defecate but, because of the design of the enema, it's unlikely that this will happen. However, you should let someone know if you are having a difficult time holding the solution in.

• 7

  Switch positions as asked to allow for clear x-ray imaging, expecting to feel some painful pressure in your abdomen as you move.

• 8

  Allow for the radiologist to complete the film series and then go to the bathroom (with the medical professional who is escorting you) and evacuate the barium solution from your intestines.

• 9

  Return to the imaging room for a final set of x-rays without any barium in your system. Wait while the radiologist checks the films for accuracy before getting dressed.

• 10

  Drink lots of fluid for the next few days to help the remaining barium pass through your system. You may notice that your bowel movements are white for a few days, which is normal after such a procedure. Speak to your doctor about what type of laxative he would recommend if the barium causes constipation.

• 11

  Return to the office for a follow-up visit or call in a few days to get the results of the test.