Barium Meal

Purpose
To evaluate the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum – checking for the presence of conditions such as hiatus hernia, ulcers, gastritis or tumours.
Preparation
You should not eat or drink for at least 6 hours prior to your examination.
Procedure
The examination takes approximately 15-20 minutes. You will be given a small intravenous injection to relax the stomach, and be asked to drink a small pill to distend your stomach with gas. Following this, you will be given a cupful of barium to drink. Several X-rays will be taken in varying positions.
After Procedure
You may continue normal activity. As the barium may be constipating, a mild laxative should be taken.
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