I am a 26-year-old
female and recently my doctor recommended a barium enema. He thinks I may have
IBS. Is this test valid?
I think he is
trying to make sure that there is nothing else that is causing your symptoms. Barium
enema is not a test specifically for IBS but to ensure that you do not have a
mass, diverticulitis or crohn disease. The test is not painful but more likely
to be uncomfortable. Most people do not like to have their anus exposed with a
tube inside it. The test involves instillation of barium in your rectum and
taking x-ray images. Usually does not take long. It is a good test and
relatively cheap. I think you should go for the test to ensure you do not have
anything else. The diagnosis of IBS is usually made clinically.