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        Cluster Headache Help and Support >> Cluster Headache Specific >> CT with contrast???
        
(Message started by: jlsvirgo79 on Apr 24^th, 2006, 1:10pm)

Title: CT with contrast???
Post by jlsvirgo79 on Apr 24^th, 2006, 1:10pm

Well I scheduled my CT scan today, and was told that they will be injecting contrast through an IV, Im scared of that stuff! Im sure it wont hurt me but I have a very hard time taking pills that ive never taken before or eating something Ive never eaten before. I have anxiety about stuff like that.
Anyone have experience with contrast?( Please no negitive stories about it cause Im nervous enough ;))
Just looking for reasurrance that it will be ok!

Title: Re: CT with contrast???
Post by layframe on Apr 24^th, 2006, 1:48pm

well I've had contrast injected for a nucular scan and had no ill effects....it just felt cold going in....nothing to worry about though

Title: Re: CT with contrast???
Post by danm on Apr 24^th, 2006, 2:23pm

I had an MRI with contrast just last week, it's no big deal. It's a little pinch like any needle. Then, you may feel some cold because it is stored in the cold room. You also may smell it or taste it just a bit.

On another note, if a CT is the same machine as MRI and you are claustrophobic at all, get yourself a few xanax or valium or something before you go. I am not claustrophobic and I almost flipped out when they slid me all the way into that tube. I had to really concentrate to try not to panic. 40 mins. felt like 4 hours.

Title: Re: CT with contrast???
Post by Skyhawk5 on Apr 25^th, 2006, 12:22am

I've had 3 CT scans with the media. 2 on the head & 1 gastric. No problem. Most of us Clusterheads that are able have had at least one CT, MRI etc. just to rule out any other possibilties. Most come back negative .
Best of luck, Skyhawk5- DonS

Title: Re: CT with contrast???
Post by Kris_in_SJ on Apr 25^th, 2006, 7:59pm

I've had contrast dye on a number of occasions ... no big deal. I usually taste a little metallic thing, but that's all. Don't freak over it - it's something you need to have done to rule out all the nasty stuff. LOL - like clusters aren't nasty!!

Hugs,

Kris

Title: Re: CT with contrast???
Post by FramCire on Apr 26^th, 2006, 12:28am

I had contrast once. It went fine. Honestly, not a big deal in my case.

There are horror stories about everything these days thanks to the internet. Don't worry, shouldn't be a big deal.

(Note: I am not a doctor)

Title: Re: CT with contrast???
Post by RichardN on Apr 26^th, 2006, 1:42am

Don't worry about it!

I've had at least six in the last two years. Like they said, sometimes a little metallic taste and possible cold or warm sensation (quite brief and they tell you when and what to expect). All the CTs I've had have been with "doughnut" machines . . . you lie on the table and the table slides you through the donut hole . . . . quite unlike the tube-type MRI (which I've also had and they can be a little freaky).

The technicians pay close attention to you and you are always in contact with them via intercom on the machine.

Hint: Wear PJs under your clothes or sweatsuit (nothing with metal buttons/zippers), and you won't have to change into one of those stupid gowns.

Be Safe, PFDANs

Richard

Title: Re: CT with contrast???
Post by rapunzel on Apr 26^th, 2006, 7:04am

I have had CT scan with contrast multiple times, no ill effects.
I was scared the first time, also. I didnt feel coldness, I felt warmth, and a metallic taste. It was no big deal, you will do fine.
The last CT I had done, was during the beginning stages of a cluster attack- they are pretty quick, and the scan was over before lying motionless became impossible.
Good luck.