An upper GI test been scheduled for you on this date: ____________________ at this time:________
This test will help show if you have a problem in your esophagus, stomach, or small intestine that is causing your symptoms. This is called the upper GI tract.
What the test is like
The test will take about 1 hour. You will be given a medical gown to wear. Before the test starts, you will be asked to swallow a liquid barium drink. It is white and tastes chalky. You may also be given a liquid to swallow that will form gas in your stomach. This lets the radiologist see the areas of your body that need to be assessed. You will then stand inside or lie under a fluoroscope. This is a type of X-ray machine that lets the health care provider watch the barium as it goes down to your stomach. You will be asked to drink more barium and move to different positions.
Before this test, tell the provider and radiology tech if:
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You may be pregnant.
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You have any medical conditions.
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You are allergic to any medicines, dyes (contrast materials), or foods.
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You are severely constipated or have a bowel obstruction.
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You take any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
How to get ready for the exam
Day before the exam:
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You may eat a normal diet until midnight before the exam.
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Don’t drink or eat anything after midnight.
Day of the exam:
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When you wake up on the day of the exam, don’t eat or drink anything.
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Don’t smoke or chew gum.
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If you are on daily medicines, you may take these with a small amount of water.
After the exam:
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Drink extra liquids to replace what you lost and to flush your system.
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Eat lightly that day.
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Take your regular medicines, unless advised otherwise by your provider.
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You will pass barium mixed with stool for 1 to 2 days. This is normal.
Symptoms after an upper GI
You may not have any problems or symptoms. But you may have:
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Bloating and upset stomach (nausea).
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Belly (abdominal) pain.
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Constipation from the barium. If this happens, take a mild laxative.
When to get medical advice
Call your provider right away if any of these occur:
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You have severe cramping, pain, or swelling in your belly.
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You don’t poop after 2 days, especially if you took a laxative.
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You aren’t passing gas.
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You have a fever.
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You vomit several times.
