Barium in the lungs resulting from aspiration during a barium swallow * Radiographic examinations involve radiation exposure in the form of X-rays. * Although barium ions are toxic, their use is generally regarded as safe because the small amounts of barium ions available in solution and absorbed by the<unk>  tract are deemed to be negligible; however, isolated cases of barium encephalopathy have been described following absorption of barium from the intestinal tract. * Constipation and abdominal pain may occur after barium meals. * The formation of baroliths, which may need to be removed surgically, is a complication of the use of barium sulfate. * Barium sulfate may cause serious peritoneal irritation. * Leakage of barium sulfate into the abdominal cavity may occur in people with duodenal ulcers or other perforations and may lead to peritonitis, adhesion, and granulomas; it is associated with a high mortality rate. Leakage of barium into the mediastinum or peritoneal cavity may lead to endotoxic shock, which is often fatal; as a result, the use of barium as a contrast agent is contraindicated when there is a suspicion or possibility of compromise of bowel wall integrity. * Aspiration or inhalation of barium sulfate into the lungs during oral application can lead to serious respiratory complications leading to fatal aspiration pneumonia or asphyxiation. * Hypersensitivity and allergic reactions are rare but some additives contained in barium preparations may induce immune reactions. Complete<unk>  obstruction is a contraindication for barium studies.
Upper gastrointestinal series
Lower gastrointestinal series
Electrogastrogram
Capsule endoscopy
Magnetogastrography
GI cocktail
Gastric emptying scan
Enteroscopy