Tag: CT scan

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Understanding CT Urograms: What to Expect Before, During, and After

A CT urogram is a type of imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the urinary tract. It is used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as kidney stones, tumors, and other abnormalities. A urologist may order a CT urogram to help diagnose and treat a variety of urinary tract conditions.

Before a CT urogram, it is important to understand how to prepare for the test and what to expect. This article will provide an overview of the CT urogram process, including how to prepare, what to expect during the test, and what to expect after the test.

Preparing for a CT Urogram

Before a CT urogram, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking and any allergies you may have. You may also need to fast for several hours before the test. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the test.

What to Expect During a CT Urogram

During a CT urogram, you will be asked to lie on a table and a contrast dye will be injected into your arm. The dye helps to make the images clearer. The table will then move through the CT scanner, which takes pictures of the urinary tract. The entire process usually takes about 30 minutes.

What to Expect After a CT Urogram

After a CT urogram, you may experience some side effects from the contrast dye, such as nausea, vomiting, or a metallic taste in your mouth. These side effects usually go away within a few hours. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on when to expect the results of the test and when to call if you have any questions or concerns.

Risks of a CT Urogram

A CT urogram is generally considered safe, but there are some risks associated with the test. These include allergic reactions to the contrast dye, radiation exposure, and kidney damage. Your healthcare provider will discuss the risks of the test with you before the procedure.

Differences Between a CT Urogram and Other Tests

A CT urogram is different from a CT scan in that it uses contrast dye to make the images clearer. It is also different from a cystoscopy, which is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube to look inside the bladder.

Conclusion

A CT urogram is a useful tool for diagnosing and monitoring urinary tract conditions. It is important to understand how to prepare for the test and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

References

  • American Urological Association. (2020). CT Urogram. Retrieved from https://www.auanet.org/education/guidelines/ct-urogram.cfm
  • Mayo Clinic. (2020). CT Urogram. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ct-urogram/about/pac-20393520
  • National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2020). CT Urogram. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/ct-urogram

Keywords: CT urogram, urologist, imaging test, X-rays, contrast dye, CT scan, cystoscopy

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Everything You Need to Know About CT Scans

A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a type of imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is also known as a CAT scan, which stands for computed axial tomography. A CT scan with contrast is a type of CT scan that uses a contrast material, such as iodine or barium, to help highlight certain areas of the body.

Preparing for a CT Scan

Before having a CT scan, you should discuss any medications you are taking with your doctor. You may need to stop taking certain medications before the test. You may also need to fast for a few hours before the test. Depending on the type of CT scan you are having, you may need to drink a contrast material or have an injection of contrast material.

What Happens During the Test?

During the test, you will lie on a table that slides into the CT scanner. The scanner will take X-ray images from different angles. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while the images are taken. The test usually takes 10-30 minutes.

How Long Does it Take to Get Results?

The results of a CT scan are usually available within 24 hours. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and explain what they mean.

What Does a CT Scan Show?

A CT scan can show a variety of things, including tumors, blood clots, bone fractures, and other abnormalities. It can also be used to guide a biopsy needle to a specific area.

Are CT Scans Safe?

CT scans are generally safe, but they do involve exposure to radiation. The amount of radiation used is small, but it can increase your risk of cancer. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of the test with you before the test.

Can I Have a CT Scan if I’m Pregnant?

If you are pregnant, you should discuss the risks and benefits of having a CT scan with your doctor. In some cases, a CT scan may be necessary, but in other cases, an ultrasound or MRI may be a better option.

References

  • Mayo Clinic. (2020). Computed tomography (CT) scan. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ct-scan/about/pac-20384902
  • American College of Radiology. (2020). CT scans. Retrieved from https://www.acr.org/Patients/Why-Choose-Radiation-Therapy/CT-Scans
  • U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). CT scan. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ctscan.html

Keywords: CT scan, CAT scan, contrast material, X-rays, imaging test, radiation, pregnancy, MRI, ultrasound.

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Everything You Need to Know About Calcium Score Tests

Calcium score tests are a type of imaging test used to measure the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. This test is used to detect the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and can help predict the risk of a heart attack.

What is a calcium score test?

A calcium score test is a type of imaging test that uses computed tomography (CT) to measure the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. This test is used to detect the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and can help predict the risk of a heart attack.

Who should get a calcium score test?

A calcium score test is recommended for people who are at risk for CAD, such as those with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.

How often should you have a calcium score test?

The frequency of calcium score tests depends on your risk factors and your doctor’s recommendation.

Who shouldn’t get a calcium score test?

Calcium score tests are not recommended for people who are pregnant, have had a recent heart attack, or have had a recent coronary angiogram.

How is a calcium score test done?

A calcium score test is done using a CT scanner. The patient lies on a table and the scanner takes pictures of the heart from different angles.

How do I prepare for a calcium score test?

You should not eat or drink anything for four hours before the test. You should also avoid wearing any metal jewelry or clothing with metal buttons or zippers.

What should I expect during a calcium score test?

During the test, you will lie on a table and the scanner will take pictures of your heart from different angles. The test is painless and takes about 10 minutes.

What should I expect after a calcium score test?

After the test, you can resume your normal activities.

What are the risks of a calcium score test? Are there side effects?

There are no known risks or side effects associated with calcium score tests.

What type of results do you get and what do the results mean?

The results of a calcium score test are reported as a number, which is the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. A higher number indicates a higher risk of CAD.

What is the normal calcium score?

A normal calcium score is 0-100.

When should I know the results of the calcium score test?

The results of a calcium score test are usually available within a few days.

If the results are abnormal, what are the next steps?

If the results of the calcium score test are abnormal, your doctor may recommend further testing or treatment.

When should I call my doctor?

You should call your doctor if you experience any chest pain or other symptoms of CAD.

Does a calcium score test show blocked arteries?

A calcium score test does not show blocked arteries, but it can help predict the risk of a heart attack.

References:

1. American Heart Association. (2020). What is a calcium score test? Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-health/what-is-heart-disease/what-is-a-calcium-score-test

2. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Coronary artery calcium scan. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/coronary-artery-calcium-scan/about/pac-20384717

3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Coronary artery calcium scan. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/coronary-artery-calcium-scan

Keywords: calcium score test, coronary artery disease, heart attack, CT scan, risk factors