Barium Not Leaving My System after a CT Scan??

Hi there. Yesterday I had a CT scan of my abdomen and pelvis that required me to take 15-17oz of Readi-Cat 2. Since then I have been drinking a lot of water and eating mainly white rice and steamed veggies (asparagus,zuchinni,carrots,kale).

I have had mild cramping since and and decided to drink 3 tablespoons of Phillips M-O after the test to get things moving. Since then I have gone to the bathroom twice; once a few hours after and once this morning. What concerns me is that I am seeing no white residue in my feces. I know this stuff "cements" in your intestines after a few days so I am wondering if not seeing white is normal... should I be ok as long as I keep going to the bathroom regularly or should I be concerned if I don't see any white stuff after tomorrow? Any suggestions?? Thank you.

[patient915]

I've read that the barium can cause diarrhea and in other places I've read that it can cause constipation, so I would think that either would be considered normal.  Good luck on your upcoming tests, that stuff they make you drink is disgusting!!!

[patient915]

I don't think you have anything to worry about.  If you don't start seeing the barium in the next couple of days then you should contact your doctor.  In the meantime I don't think there is any reason for you to make any laxatives unless you are feeling constipated and dietary and lifestyle changes aren't working.

[EarFullofHistory]

Thank you for the response! I have gone more freuently today than I typically do and though the stools arent white they are lighter than usual so I am guessing that is the barium blended in (man, that would probably be gag-inducing if I said it aloud...!).

I will continue to drink plenty of water, watch Larry Sanders until the humorous cynicism washes my worries away and remain positive throughout the weekend. Hopefully these tests will give me some answers or, at the very least, a direction.

Upper GI & Small Bowel Series next week.... Yaaaaay, more cement mixing to come.

[patient915]

I've read that the barium can cause diarrhea and in other places I've read that it can cause constipation, so I would think that either would be considered normal.  Good luck on your upcoming tests, that stuff they make you drink is disgusting!!!