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Upper GI Series

The upper gastrointestinal (GI) series uses * x-rays to diagnose problems in the * esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the * small intestine). It may also be used to examine the small intestine. The upper GI series can show a blockage, abnormal growth, * ulcer, or a problem with the way an organ is working.

The digestive system with the esophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, large intestine, small intestine, appendix, rectum, and anus.

During the procedure, you will drink barium, a thick, white, milkshake like liquid. Barium coats the inside lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine) and makes them show up more clearly on x-rays. The radiologist can also see ulcers, scar tissue, abnormal growths, * hernia, or areas where something is blocking the normal path of food through the digestive system. Using a machine called a fluoroscope, the radiologist is also able to watch your digestive system work as the barium moves through it. This part of the procedure shows any problems in how the * digestive system functions, for example, whether the muscles that control swallowing are working properly. As the barium moves into the small intestine, the radiologist can take x-rays of it as well.

An upper GI series takes 1 to 2 hours. X-rays of the small intestine may take 3 to 5 hours. It is not uncomfortable. The barium may cause constipation and white colored stool for a few days after the procedure. Following the directions of Milk of Magnesia or Haley's M-O., for example, will help with constipation, along with drinking plenty of water, eight 8 ounce glasses, will flush the barium from your system in about 2 to 3 days.

Preparation
Your stomach and small intestine must be empty for the procedure to be accurate, so the night before you will not be able to eat or drink anything after midnight. Your physician may give you other specific instructions.

Definitions For This Page - In Alphabetical Order

* Digestive System
Pronounced - dy-JES-tuv sis-tum
The digestive system is organs in the body that break down and absorb food. Organs that make up the digestive system are the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. Organs that help with digestion but are not part of the digestive tract are the tongue, glands in the mouth that make saliva, pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. More about the Digestive System

* Esophagus
Pronounced - eh-SAW-fuh-gus
The esophagus is the organ that connects the mouth to the stomach. Also spelled oesophagus. Also called gullet.

* Hernia
Pronounced - HUR-nee-uh
A hernia is the part of an internal organ that pushes through an opening in the organ's wall. Most hernias occur in the abdominal area.

* Small Intestine
The small intestine is the organ where most digestion occurs. It measures about 22 feet and includes the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. More about Small Intestine.

* Ulcer
Pronounced - UL-sur
Ulcer is a sore on the skin surface or on the stomach lining.

* X-ray
X-ray is a type of high energy radiation. In low doses, x-rays are used to diagnose diseases by making pictures of the inside of the body. In high doses, x-rays are used to treat cancer.

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References:
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
digestive.niddk.nih.gov/

The information discussed above is a general overview and does not include all the facts, or include everything there is to know about any medicine and/or products mentioned. Do not use any medicine and/or products without first talking to your doctor. Possible side effects of medications, other than those listed, may occur. Other brand names or generic forms of this medicine may also be available. If you have questions or concerns, or want more information, your doctor or pharmacist has the complete prescribing information about this medicine and possible drug interactions.