A barium enema is a procedure that uses an X-ray to examine the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It can help identify colorectal cancers and other conditions. Experts may also call barium enemas ...

A barium swallow is a type of test used to look inside the esophagus, or food pipe. A doctor might recommend this test if they need to look at the outline of any part of a person’s digestive system.

A barium swallow is a type of X-ray test that helps your doctor see the back of your mouth and throat (pharynx), and the tube that extends from the back of the tongue down to the stomach (esophagus).