Side effects of CT scans can arise due to the use of contrast agents, which are substances used to clarify images or display the condition of organs in the body. In addition, side effects of CT scans can occur due to excessive radiation exposure if CT scans are carried out too often.
CT scan is a type of radiological examination that is carried out to see the condition of the organs in the body. These tests are often necessary to diagnose medical conditions or diseases, guide medical procedures, and monitor the response to certain treatments, such as chemotherapy.
Although generally safe, CT scans can also cause some side effects, especially for children and pregnant women.
Important Side Effects of a CT Scan
CT scans are generally safe to do. However, just like any other medical procedure, this examination can also cause some side effects. Here are some side effects of CT scans that can occur:
Reaction to contrast agent
CT scan can be done in 2 ways, namely CT scan with contrast agent or without contrast agent. The process of scanning a CT scan using a contrast agent is needed to clarify the quality of the image of a particular organ, structure, blood vessel, or tissue to be monitored.
The contrast agent on CT scans is mostly made of iodine and is used by injection through a vein before the patient undergoes a CT scan procedure.
The use of this contrast agent can cause allergic reactions and affect the performance of organs, such as the kidneys. Therefore, the use of contrast agents is usually not recommended for patients who have certain diseases, such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, thyroid disorders, or kidney disease.
The following are the side effects of using contrast agents on CT scans that are often encountered:
- Mild allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, and swelling of the skin
- Cough
- Dizzy
- stomach cramps
- Constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
Although rare, contrast agents can sometimes cause a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. Symptoms usually include shortness of breath, facial swelling, airway obstruction, and a fast heart beat. If not treated immediately, anaphylaxis can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.
To prevent side effects of contrast agents, patients who have a history of allergies or are at high risk of allergies may be given antihistamines and corticosteroids first by a doctor before injecting contrast agents.
Excessive radiation exposure
CT scans use high-power X-ray radiation. Exposure to high levels of radiation can be harmful and can damage the DNA of body cells, thereby increasing the risk of cancer.
However, this risk is very small in people who undergo the occasional CT scan procedure. The increased risk of developing cancer due to side effects of CT scans generally only occurs when a person frequently performs the procedure.
Regardless of the risks, when you have been recommended by a doctor for a CT scan, it means that the benefits from the CT scan may far outweigh the potential risks of radiation exposure.
In addition to the various risks above, CT scans are also more at risk of causing side effects in children. Meanwhile, in pregnant women, CT scans can sometimes cause side effects on the fetus.
Therefore, in order to anticipate the side effects of CT scans in this group, doctors will weigh the benefits and risks as well as possible.
To minimize the risk of side effects from a CT scan, you should first consult with your doctor before undergoing this examination. The doctor will weigh the benefits and risks of this examination, and if possible, the doctor will suggest another type of examination that is safer.
