My name is Marilyn Baker, and I have horrible allergies. I’m 42 years old and have been suffering from allergies since I was a child. I have seasonal and environmental allergies. Allergies plague me year round. When I was young, my parents even moved to a dryer area in the hope of helping me. Over the past eight years, I have done extensive research both through doctors and online. I have managed to come up with some combinations that have helped me a great deal. My allergies aren’t gone, but they have become manageable. I do have to have allergy shots, but I also use some natural remedies. I am happy to be able to share my findings with you here on my blog. I hope you can find some of this of value.
You may be a little nervous if you have an abdominal CT scan scheduled, but the procedure itself is really nothing to worry about. Knowing how to prepare for the scan and what to expect during it can help set you at ease. Read the following guide for more information.
Food and drink restrictions
You will likely be put on food and beverage restrictions leading up to the scan, since the technician doesn't want any partially digested foods or liquids obscuring the abdominal imaging. In most cases, you can schedule the scan for the morning, so you can simply hold off on breakfast for a couple of hours while still ensuring an empty stomach. If you have to have an afternoon scan, check with your doctor to see how long you must go without eating before the scan.
Internal dye
In many cases, you will be given an internal dye, which will help increase the contrast in your abdominal area so the tech and doctors can better discern the different organs. You may be instructed to drink something or given an enema before the scan, and then it will be given some time to work its way through your system. In some cases, the dye may be injected directly into the organ that needs to be scanned.
Metal concerns
Before entering the exam room, make sure there are no metal items on your person. This means removing all piercings and body jewelry, as well as any regular jewelry. Don't overlook small pieces of metal, like the clasp on a ponytail holder. Let your technician know if you have any metal in your body, such as metal fillings or permanently placed internal screws or staples from past procedures. Generally, only the area that goes into the scanner should be metal-free, but it is better to err on the side of caution.
The basic process
The scanner looks like a donut standing on end. You will be asked to lie down on on a table, which will then pass into the donut until your abdominal section is centered inside. The technician will then begin the scan, while issuing basic instructions. You will need to hold as still as possible, holding your breath when requested to do so. If you need to cough or sneeze, let the tech know so they can pause the scan for moment.
Talk to your medical professional if you need more help. Contact a company like Hudson Valley Imaging for more info.
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