Barium

High levels of barium in the body could indicate exposure to excessive amounts of the element, which may result from environmental factors, occupational exposure, or consumption of contaminated food or water. In some cases, high barium levels could be related to the use of certain medications or medical procedures involving barium, such as barium swallow tests or enemas. Elevated barium levels may also suggest the presence of an underlying health issue, such as kidney dysfunction, which could affect the body's ability to eliminate the element efficiently. It is essential to identify the source of the increased barium levels to determine the potential cause and address any related concerns.

Symptoms of high levels of Barium may include muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, increased blood pressure, heart rhythm disturbances, stomach irritation, diarrhea, vomiting, and kidney dysfunction.

Low levels of barium in the body could indicate that your internal organs are not being adequately coated during a medical test, which may affect the clarity of X-ray images and the accuracy of diagnoses. This could be due to factors such as insufficient consumption of the barium liquid, rapid transit through the gastrointestinal tract, or interference from certain medications, such as antacids or laxatives, that may affect the absorption or retention of barium. It is essential to follow the test preparation instructions provided by your healthcare team to ensure optimal barium levels and accurate results.

Symptoms of low levels of Barium may include unclear X-ray images, inaccurate diagnoses, and potential interference with certain medications such as antacids or laxatives.