How to Get a Small Bowel X-Ray to Test for Colitis

A small bowel X-ray, also known as a GI series, upper GI series or a barium swallow X-ray, is often performed as a way to differentiate ulcerative colitis from other inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Patients who get the test are given a radiological barium solution to swallow that illuminates the GI structures. These structures can then be easily seen with a fluoroscope, an image projecting X-ray device. It's a painless, though somewhat time-consuming test.

Instructions

Prepare For a Small Bowel X-Ray

• 1

  Check with your doctor about any dietary restrictions for the few days prior to the exam. You will need to fast beginning at midnight the night before the test. Some doctors also prefer patients to limit solid food intake for 2 to 3 days before the small bowel X-ray.

• 2

  Arrive at the doctor's office or X-ray department early enough to fill out any remaining forms.

• 3

  Allow at least 4 hours for completion of the test. The time will vary depending on how quickly the barium moves through your digestive system.

• 4

  Remove any jewelry or other metal objects that will show up on the X-rays.

• 5

  Provide the medical technicians with a thorough medical history and list of symptoms, particularly those pertaining to the possible diagnosis of colitis.

Get a Small Bowel X-Ray to Test For Colitis

• 6

  Participate in a set of reference X-rays in which your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine will be examined with the fluoroscope without the benefit of the barium contrast.

• 7

  Get an injection of medication to slow your bowels. This is done to allow the radiologist to see all necessary structures clearly during the test.

• 8

  Drink the barium "milkshake." You must drink at least 16 oz. (or 2 cups) of the solution. It has a chalky texture and may leave a slight aftertaste. Try not to burp since the gas is important in the examination process.

• 9

  Return to the X-ray room. Allow the path of barium through your abdominal structures to be monitored on the fluoroscope. You will be asked to change position so that the images can be seen from a variety of different angles.

• 10

  Avoid constipation after the small bowel X-ray by drinking lots of fluids and eating high-fiber foods for the next few days. Expect your stools to be grayish in color for a day or two as the barium is expelled from your system.