A Big Gulp of Barium Sulphate

This afternoon, I was starting to get frustrated when she called me. Its definitely not a new feeling, but something which I have experienced before with some other ppl. Its like forcing me to take on the same route whenever I encounter such problems. But I told myself she is a very nice friend, I cannot get myself frustrated or harbour ill feeling for her.

This morning, I reported to NUH after fasting over the previous night. In the radiography department, I was told to dress up in the operation suite. It took me quite a while to figure out how to put the 2 pieces on. In the radiography room, I was told to gulp down ONE HUGE CUP of Barium Sulphate. Prior to that, the 3 medical officers had an arguement on the right amt of BaS04 to give me.

1) The first said: Its 400ml of BaSO4 + 40ml of H20
2) The second said: Its 40ml of BaSO4 + 400ml of H20
3) The second said: Its 400ml of BaSO4 + 340 of H20

Whatever the combi, I gulped down whatever they provide me. The BaSO4 is supposed to have illuminating effects and push down whatever particles I have in my stomach and intestines down to my bowels. Moreover, I was also instructed to swallow some crystals that taste like ENO. Its supposed to bloat my stomach up so tat the radiography could be taken better, and I was not allowed to burp so that the 'effectiveness' wun be lost.

Initially, I was told to stand and lean against a machine. After changing various poses, the machine began to move and tilt, as it gradually bring my body along until a sleeping position. After which, there were a series more of turning here and there. Walaos, I wonder if the old folks could take such treatments. From the screen, I could see my own stomach, intestines and other organs. But to my pleasant surprise, the medical officer was unable to detect my small bowels/intestines. A huge metal rod was used to press and rotate around my abdomen... painful siah.

I know I may look strong and healthy from the outside, but the fact is I am full of rubbish within. My colleagues shared and bought me a huge bottle of Centrum, supposed to provide supplements to my diet. They assure me that I will look much vibrant and feel more energetic after one week. I have to accept the gift out of my gratitude and respect for them.

Good news to all van owners. A series of new rules have made van driving much more worth while and affordable... shall share more in my next entry :)