Risks of barium x-rays may include:

• Radiation. Low levels of radiation are emitted during radiographic tests. Fluoroscopy and cineradiography can emit more radiation than standard x-rays. Kidney damage can be worsened by contrast agents such as barium, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The physician may recommend that kidney patients protect their kidneys by drinking water before and after x-rays. The test also may be ordered without the use of a contrast agent.
  

  

• Infection. This occurs infrequently during upper or lower GI barium tests. A common symptom of infection is fever. Infection should be treated promptly.
  
  
• Cramping. This is common during both types of barium enemas but eases after the procedure.
  
  
• Tearing of the colon. This is a rare risk of the lower GI tests. Surgery may be necessary if the intestine is perforated.
  
  
• Constipation. Often patients will be advised to expel the barium and avoid constipation by eating high-fiber foods, using laxatives or drinking more water.
  
  
• Intestinal obstruction. If the barium is not defecated it can harden in the intestine. A white stool is normal for up to three days after barium x-rays. The patient should notify the physician if there is no white stool or if there are other bowel problems. Intestinal obstruction could lead to potentially fatal barium poisoning.
  
  
• Poisoning. Normally the body cannot absorb barium sulfate because this compound is not water soluble. Poisoning can occur in the rare cases in which water-soluble barium compounds are accidentally used instead of insoluble forms, or in which intestinal blockage prevents the body from expelling barium sulfate. Symptoms of barium poisoning include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain. In severe cases the body can lose so much potassium that paralysis or death can result.
  
  In most cases, however, barium x–rays are administered with no difficulty or lasting complications.