When to Seek Medical Care

Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems after the barium swallow test, such as vomiting, bleeding, pain, or trouble breathing. If you do not have a bowel movement in 2-3 days after the test, you should also call or see your doctor.

You should go to the hospital's emergency department if you have severe pain, difficulty breathing, constant vomiting, chest pain, or any other symptoms that you think might be an emergency.