Barium test / Upper GI

Rogue · March 14, 2009

In preparation for my lapband surgery, I was asked to have a barium swallow test (aka Upper GI). Boy, I didn't know what to expect. :crying: Well, I found a really informative site that describes exactly what happens during this test. I tell you, I felt like I was on a sci-fi episode. I drank crystals that reminded me of pop-rocks to create gas in the stomach, then a milkshake-like substance which was barium , and finally drank a thin liquid (had to drink it almost lying down from a straw). Overall, the actual test took no more than 15-20 mins. The doctor took pictures of my stomach as I swallowed the thick barium, more pics when she gave me a 2nd dose of gas inducing crystals & again as I drank the thin liquid. Pretty cool to see how the stomach looks and how liquids run from the mouth to stomach to intestines! Our bodies are truly amazing miracles.

Just wanted to share my experiece as I'm learning so much from all of you. Now back to trying to calm my nerves as my surgery date approaches. :scared2:

Nakniwa · March 14, 2009

Thanks for sharing, this is very helpful, I have mine in a week.

ksill18 · March 14, 2009

yea and your going to have white poop for a few days after the test haha.

Mr. Green · March 15, 2009

I just had mine a few days ago and I can not stress to drink, drink, and drink some more after this test. I felt like I had a belly full of barium for most of Friday. When I finally went to the bathroom on Saturday I felt like I lost 5lbs right there:w00t: