Medical issues to consider before a CT scan

Medical considerations prior to the CT scan may include:

• Tell the doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Another type of test may be recommended.
• Tell the doctor if you have allergies, diabetes, thyroid condition or renal (kidney) impairment.
• Tell the doctor if you experience claustrophobia (fear of small spaces). The doctor may give you mild sedatives to help you relax during the procedure.
• Tell the doctor about any implanted device you may have such as a pacemaker or medication pump, as metal objects may distort the images.
• Follow all the instructions you are given. Some CT scans require the use of contrast material to improve the image quality. The contrast material may be taken orally or by an intravenous injection (or both).
• You may have to go without food and drink for a certain length of time before the procedure. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for the test and what to expect.
• A very obese person may be too big for the circular hole of the CT machine. The doctor may advise another type of medical imaging or diagnostic test.