CT scans are generally very safe, but they can lead to some side effects. The most common are mild reactions to the contrast dye such as nausea or itching and a very small risk of radiation exposure that could slightly increase the risk of cancer over one’s lifetime.
Side Effect Of CT scans
CT scans are very useful in evaluating the brain and spine and can be used for diagnosis of various conditions; which include:
Brain tumor
- Skull fracture
- Bleeding in the brain
- Stroke
- Hydrocephalus (buildup of fluid in the brain)
- Conditions of alignment problems of the spine
- Fractures of the spine
- Herniated (slipped) disc of the spinal column
The CT scan of the brain and/or spine gives important information regarding the size, location and nature of the abnormality that can guide treatment plans.
Radiation Exposure
A CT scan involves some small amount of ionizing radiation which may increase cancer risk in high doses.It is important to understand that for most medically indicated CT scans, the benefits outweigh the small risk of microscopic radiation exposure. Modern CT scanners use the smallest possible dose of radiation that results in the best pictures.
Contrast Material Reactions
If your CT scan uses contrast material, there is a small chance that you will have an allergic reaction. Most reactions are mild, causing symptoms such as itchiness or rash. There may also be side effects of contrast material, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- A warm, flushed feeling
- A metallic taste in the mouth
Most times these symptoms are temporary and will pass on their own, however, more severe allergic reactions can happen (rarely).
Kidney Issues
Occasionally, contrast material used for a CT scan may cause kidney functioning issues, particularly in a patient who has a history of kidney issues or diabetes. If there is any concern about your kidney functioning, your physician will assess your kidney functioning prior to giving the contrast material.
Incidental Findings
Keen observers of CT scans understand that an abnormality seen on CT scans imaging may have no relevance to the reason for obtaining the scan. Incidental findings can lead to early detection of serious conditions, but incidental findings may also lead to extensive further clinical investigation that may require long-term follow up.
Review the importance of the CT scan options with your physician, to assess any incidental findings that are of clinical relevance.
Negative Side Effects
The CT Scans Below are some drawbacks to a CT scan: Discomfort: the patient may feel discomfort from lying still for longer than usual, or possibly even the IV contrast injection. Renal Problems: the contrast dye in CT scans can affect renal function to some degree, especially if there is a pre-existing renal issue.
This is a critical drawback to CT scans. Pregnancy: Pregnant women are often not recommended to have the test performed based on the dangers the radiation may pose to the unborn child. Delayed reactions: The contrast agents involved in CT scans can sometimes lead to patients having allergic reactions days later with skin related reactions or itching reports.
Conclusion
CT scans yield very detailed and possibly critical diagnostic information but come with risks that must be weighed against the benefits of detail. You are best protected from the risks CT scans bring along with their benefits with comprehensive health insurance. When you have comprehensive health insurance you are protected from the unsuspecting, potentially catastrophic costs and you can relax in the decision making process that comes with health care choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are common side effects of a CT scan?
CT scan side effects include mild reactions to contrast dye nausea, itchiness or a rash. More serious reactions, as in problems breathing or swelling, occur much less but are also serious and should prompt a call to your physician.
Q. What are the negatives of CT scan?
How CT scans, while valuable in diagnosis, can have a number of potential drawbacks. CT scans expose individuals to radiation, can cause potential allergic reactions to contrast dye, and may induce additional health problems when kidneys are involved.
Q. Do CT scans affect your body?
CT scans can impact your body.The advantages and improvements related to the scan exceed the risks of the scan.
Q. Can a CT scan affect your body?
Yes, a CT scan can be associated with some potential effects on the body mainly because of the radiation exposure and sometimes the potential effects of the contrast dye injection.
Q. What is a CT scan test for?
CT scan is used to detect tumors, fractures, infections, and internal injuries.
