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CAT scans, what are they like?

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Posted 3/11/2005 4:07 PM (GMT 0)
I go for my radiation "planning session" Monday morning at 8:15 and it will include a CAT scan.  I've never had one but have had MRI's and hated them.  I needed to take a Valium to do even the open MRI's and when I had no choice for a closed one just about hyperventilated.

 

What should I expect?  And should I take something to calm me before hand.  If so, I'm going to have to find someone to take me there.  I don't want to drive on sedatives.

 

Thanks,

 

Posted 3/11/2005 5:54 PM (GMT 0)
Mia, you may want to ask the radiology place about their equipment or procedures. I think I had one as part of my radiation planning, but it was just an open tube. I barely remember, because I am not 100% sure it was the CT, but I think it was...and I was never closed in. There was no IV or contrast.

Last year I had a chest CT with contrast. They gave me an IV with a dye. I think I just laid on one of those narrow table things, and the machine moved and whirred around me. again, it was not closed in at all.

It should be a very quick process too, I bet the CT is over in a matter of minutes. But I do not think it is at all like an MRI, but I have not had an MRI myself.

good luck!
Lori
Posted 3/11/2005 6:02 PM (GMT 0)
I have never had an MRI but as I understand it the CT is not nearly as bad. Sometimes you have to drink some rather ukky stuff. That was the worst part for me. You have to hold your breath while the table moves in and out of an open circle about three feet deep. I was always afraid I would have to breath sooner than I should, lol, but never did. As Lori said it is over quickly, usually you don't have to even undress for it, unless you are wearing a bra with metal. WE can come and hold your hand if we can all fit in the room. Hugs MK
Posted 3/11/2005 6:07 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Mia,

I've never had an MRI, but CT scans are a breeze. They're over in no time, under a minute as I recall. I've had a lot of those and never minded them a bit. And I never had to drink anything, either. They just get you comfortable, and then it's over. I can think of lots worse things to go through, like root canals last month. . .

Hugs,
Rita
Posted 3/11/2005 6:34 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks ladies, you make it sound like a cinch.  I can handle that.  Heck that sound like an x-ray!  If that's the case I won't be needing the PCE, send it on it's way over the pond to Denise.  But don't forget to pick me up!  I could use a break from this Ohio weather.

yeah  

H & L,

 

 

Posted 3/12/2005 2:52 PM (GMT 0)
OK Mia we will not worry about the PCE for you this time. But it will be ready when you need it for anything. Hugs MK
Posted 3/13/2005 3:52 AM (GMT 0)
Dear Mia,

Best of luck to you on Monday. The cat scan will be a breeze, especially after you have had an MRI before. I am not fond of the MRI's myself, however, when I had one last year for my back (before my back surgery), they gave me earphones with music and put a washcloth over my face and I can't believe how much that helped!

Make sure you let us know what you find out about the radiation treatments so we can send you lots of prayers and good thoughts for those too.

{{{{{{{{{{{{MIA}}}}}}}}}.

Hugs,
Deb
^j^ ^j^
Posted 3/13/2005 11:44 AM (GMT 0)
Mia, sorry you will not be flying with us this time. The Cat is my favorite of this type of test. I love when they tell me I can have that instead of the MRI. Its simple, quiet and quick. None of that awful banging noise and not as closed in. But if you are worried you let us know and we will certainly schedule PCE for another stop. Hugs,
Posted 3/13/2005 3:59 PM (GMT 0)
Mia, CT scan, just hop up there, and relax. Once I even feel asleep during it. You just lie there and let the machine do its work. Before you know it, its over. I'll be with right there with you tomorrow. Hugs, Luci
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