Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about barium x-rays:

1. Which type of barium test do I need?
   
   
2. How and where will the test be administered?
   
   
3. What are the risks associated with the test?
   
   
4. Will I need any special preparation for the test?
   
   
5. How long will the test take to complete?
   
   
6. What do you hope to learn from the test?
   
   
7. When and from whom will I receive the results of the test?
   
   
8. What can I expect in the recovery process?
   
   
9. Do I have any conditions that make create difficulties with the test?
   
   
10. How often will I need to have a barium x-ray?
    
    
11. What additional tests might be necessary?
    
    
12. What will likely follow if you find cancer?