Is a CT scan painful?
July 19, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Nina Bergmann
Dear Radiologist,
My name is Sofia Bergmann and I am concerned about whether a CT scan is painful. I have never had such a procedure before and I am unsure of what to expect.
My primary care physician has recommended a CT scan for me as I have been experiencing recurring abdominal pain for some time. Despite various tests, the exact cause of my symptoms has not been identified. Therefore, the CT scan is meant to provide further information to help clarify my diagnosis.
I am worried that the procedure might be painful as I am generally very sensitive and also have a fear of confined spaces. I have heard that during the CT scan, one is pushed into a tight tube and has to lie still for some time. This idea makes me uncomfortable and makes me doubt whether I should go through with the procedure at all.
Could you please explain to me if a CT scan is indeed painful? Are there ways to make the procedure more comfortable for me, such as sedatives or distraction techniques? I would like to learn more about the process of the scan so that I can better prepare myself.
Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Sincerely,
Sofia Bergmann
Dear Sofia Bergmann,
I understand your concerns and worries regarding the upcoming CT scan. It is completely normal to have thoughts about such an examination, especially if you have never had one before. I would like to provide you with some information about the procedure of a CT scan to alleviate your fears and help you better prepare for it.
First and foremost, I want to emphasize that a CT scan is usually not painful. During the scan, you will be moved into a special tube, which is not narrow. You will lie on a table that slowly moves into the tube. During the scan, you will need to remain still so that the images do not become blurry. You will be monitored by a radiologist or a radiology technologist throughout the entire examination, who can give you instructions if needed.
However, if you suffer from claustrophobia or feel uncomfortable, you can inform your doctor before the examination. There are various ways to make the procedure more pleasant. Your doctor can prescribe sedatives to help you relax. You can also bring headphones with music to distract yourself and make the time during the examination more enjoyable. It is important that you discuss your concerns and fears with your doctor before the examination so that he can help you have the best possible experience.
The process of a CT scan is usually very quick and uncomplicated. The actual scan only takes a few minutes and several images of your abdomen will be taken during that time. After the examination, you can go home directly and continue with your normal daily routine.
I hope this information has helped you better prepare for the upcoming CT scan. If you have any further questions or need additional support, I am here to help. Please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
Nina Bergmann
