Remove all jewelry. The X-ray causes no discomfort. The barium milk shake has a chalky and unpleasant taste. There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image.
Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits.
Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of the X-ray. If the barium is not passed through the system in 2 or 3 days, notify the health care provider because it can cause a bowel obstruction. The purpose of the test is to detect abnormalities of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestines.