Have you had bowel movements since the barium swallow?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 73-year-old female and had a barium swallow six days ago for GERD, dysphagia, and throat pain. An ENT doctor ordered the scan. I also have IBS and was unaware that patients with IBS should not undergo this test. Should not the ENT doctor have reviewed my chart and known that I have IBS before ordering the scan? Now, I have a significant amount of barium stuck in my colon. After the barium swallow, I consumed at least 2-3 gallons of water over the next two days, ate fruits and vegetables, etc. My primary doctor has prescribed Lactulose, but I do not believe it will help. I am very worried. I have followed all the doctors' instructions. Additionally, I wanted to ask if a colonoscopy would allow them to remove the barium from my colon.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Have you had any bowel movements since the barium swallow? If you have had any, the swallowed barium would most likely have passed through with it. Could you please share the symptoms and complaints you are currently experiencing?

If Lactulose does not seem to be effective, we can try alternatives like ispaghula husk, Dulcolax, or Sorbiline—any of the three. We can also consider administering an enema to stimulate bowel movements. Please let us know your preference.

Kindly share the reports of any previous investigations, including the barium swallow, so we can assess your situation thoroughly.

I hope you feel better soon.

Thank you.