Preparations – X-ray, Upper GI Tract

You will be given detailed instructions on how to prepare for your x-ray of your upper GI tract when you schedule your exam.

You should inform your radiologist of any medications you are taking and if you have any allergies, especially to barium or iodinated contrast materials. Also inform your radiologist about recent illnesses or other medical conditions.

To ensure the best possible image quality, your stomach must be empty of food. Therefore, you will likely be asked not to eat or drink anything (including any medications taken by mouth, especially antacids) and to refrain from chewing gum after midnight on the day of the examination.

You may be asked to remove some or all of your clothes and to wear a gown during the exam.

Women should always inform their radiologist and x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.