Question.

Does everyone get severe diahhrea after a swallow test? The barium and other contrast literally goes right through me and I have bad diahhrea for almost the rest of the day!!!!! From expierencing the pre-op upper GI series test and the day after surgery swallow test. So Im afraid when its time for the fill I wont make it home, since its an hour away!!!!! ERica

Yes, normal...that barium drink can cause either the runs or constipation depending on how your body reacts to it...no fun... Your fill doctor always uses flouro? I've never had flouro for a fill...Generally, flouro should only be used when the fill doctor can't access the port easily. Flouro doesn't make giving the "right" amount any easier, it's still more art than science...Double check...you might not need flouro for fills and if your fill doc uses flouro for all fills regardless of the need, mention your problem with the barium...there may be a different drink they can use with you...Gastro-graffin (sp) I believe is another type... Nancy 394/299/180

I have to go to the hospital and the radiologist always does the fills, using the flouroscope, they dont want to poke around too much, they figure this is the safest way, then they add just enough to see a little restriction. My surgeon isnt even there. I will mention the effects of the contrast , the 2nd kind I had was worse, it was neon green and the most nasty stuff Ive ever tried, Well actually the phoso-soda was worse !!!! Thanks!!!! Erica

Hi! I hate to burst anyone's bubble (pardon the pun!), but any kind of gastro-intestinal contrast material (gastrograffin, barium, etc) will most likely cause BM issues until it is completely out of the system. Gastrograffin will most likely give you diahrrea. I had the gastrograffin test, and was pals with the toilet for 5 days straight. Barium can become constipating, so it is wise to drink PLENTY of fluids after the test. I, particularly would have opted to have the barium instead of the gastrograffin. I was given both during my swallow test, and the barium was far better tasting than that vile, bile-like gastrograffin! Eek! Also remember, you will probably be instructed to be on liquids for a day or two following your fill, so not much will be coming out bu****er from both ends anyway. I don't think it'll be as bad as you're thinking it will be, but definitely go home after your flouro so you can be near the bathroom if need be for at least the rest of the day. Don't forget to drink lots of H2O afterwards! Take care, Steph