CT scans on the hand are generally safe, but there are some side effects such as radiation exposure, allergic reaction to contrast dye, exposure to radiation is low, but theoretically it might increase your chances of getting cancer in the long run particularly pregnant women and children. Reactions can be mild Discomfort may be from lying flat to have the scan or from receiving contrast dye injection.
Allergic Reaction to Contrast Dye
Allergic reactions (though rare allergic reactions will occur) will occur if dye is in a CT scan. Reactions may be slight (hives, redness, and itchiness) or major (wheezing, having trouble breathing, and/or anaphylactic shock). It is better to report a reaction to contrast sooner than it is to report any allergies or medical conditions that would apply.
Radiation Exposure
Hand CT scans, like all CT scans, employ the use of ionizing radiation that carries some small risk of long-term complications, most commonly cancer. In general terms, the patient dose from one CT scan is very small, and the capability to deliver an accurate diagnosis may outweigh.
Discomfort
There is a small level of discomfort with a CT scan of the hand since the radiographer will ask you to be completely still for several minutes at a time. If they are using contrast dye you may get a passing sensation of heat wash over your body or sense a metallic taste.
Possible Complications
The contrast dye may potentially impair kidney function in certain individuals with kidney problems.A CT hand scan involves a tiny dose of ionizing radiation (as does any CT scan), which can contribute somewhat to cancer risk, especially with repeated scans. If you are given
Pregnancy
A CT of the hand during pregnancy is very low risk to the baby when the CT is not of the pelvis or abdomen. Although a CT does give off radiation, the radiation dose and exposure from an adult hand CT are minuscule and are very low, and are many times considered acceptable risk versus the possible benefit of diagnosing an illness that it is necessary.
Weight Limitations
Similar to all CT scans, CT hand scans have size and weight limitations with regard to the patient. The size of the opening of the scanner can be limiting as well. Patients larger than the maximum weight limitation and gantry opening limitation will typically not be scanned.
Previous Reactions
The most frequent adverse effects are transient and mild but may include severe reactions that always include the contrast.
Conclusion
It is probably safe enough for you to have a CT scan of your hand since it has low radiation dose and few side effects. You should bring to your doctor’s attention the following risk factors, in rare situations, mild allergic reaction to the contrast dye during the CT scan, and mild discomfort when you have the CT scan, and in rare situations, an effect on the kidney, and severe allergic reactions in rare situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Are there any harmful side effects of CT scan?
Of course, it is risky. CT scans are proven to be safe because they also have some risks with a CT scan.
Q. Can you provide me with a CT scan on my hand?
Yes,CT hand scans are an extremely effective method of examining the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and soft tissue to check whether there is any malfunction in the hand.
Q. To whom should CT scans be avoided?
Children below the age of 18 years, women in pregnancy, patients with incomplete medical history, and patients with allergies should usually avoid, or at least utilize, CT scans.
Q. How to get rid of radiation after a CT scan?
You don’t need to actively eliminate radiation after a CT scan because the radiation isn’t deposited in your body. CT scans involve X-ray radiation; the radiation goes through your body during the scan, and therefore theoretically there shouldn’t be any residual radioactivity.
Q. For how long will the side effects of a CT scan persist?
The majority of the side effects of a CT scan are transient and mild in nature which most likely resolves within several hours. Some of the possible side effects are fatigue and headache, which generally improve within 24-48 hours following a CT scan.
