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Are you getting too much radiation from CT scans?

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Posted 6/17/2010 9:56 PM (GMT 0)
There has been lots of news lately about radiation exposure during medical testing. Those of us with Crohn's disease are often given abdominal CT scans when we have new pain, symptoms, etc. In my opinion, everyone here needs to read this article to be aware of exactly how much exposure we are getting and the risks associated with that exposure.

Americans get most radiation from medical scans - an Associated Press article

Posted 6/17/2010 11:36 PM (GMT 0)
Ides, probably too late for me then, but I often wonder if they scan a little too much...
Posted 6/17/2010 11:54 PM (GMT 0)
I have had 5 abdominal CT scans, sinus CT and a cardiac CT scan in the last 7 years plus more xrays of my hips, shoulders, back than I can recall. I have had more millisieverts than I need. Last time the doctor in the ER wanted to do a CT scan I asked for an ultrasound instead. He talked me into the CT. If ever in the situation again I will hold out the for the ultrasound. [I have had repeated bouts of cecal diverticulitis]
Posted 6/18/2010 12:42 AM (GMT 0)
I have been reading about that and I know back in 07-08 while I had my 4 surgeries I had 24 plus CT scans that is why at the hospital out here where I am now they refuse to have me go thru a CT when I go to the ER with a flare. Scares me due to seeing an abdominal also gives the most radiation at 10 (i forget the units used sry) this doesnt incluse the rads I have had as well they did a couple a few weeks ago.
Posted 6/18/2010 12:54 AM (GMT 0)
I have the same concern. I can tell you that my husband had Kidney cancer, and now most of his 6 mo follow ups are ultrasound-- with one CT scan a year... the urologist/oncologist doc said it was to cut down the amt of radiation... because that was more cause for concern then the actual cancer returning.

I am allergic to iodine in IVP dye (anaphalactyc). So no contrast injected. In talking with University of Miami- they suggested all future CT scans, even with the drinking contrast, I need to pre med protocal because eventually I will have a reaction to all the iodine. (Put pred and benedryl on board prior to the scans...)

Kim in FL

Posted 6/18/2010 5:16 AM (GMT 0)
IMHO, it's really a concern if you're having a test done, and another test that had much lower radiation could have been done and given results just as accurately. In the case that you're in the ER and they need to figure things out fast, it's better to do a test than just assume, and it be life threatening. It's really all a matter of benefit vs risk.

While CT's aren't regulated near as much as other imaging tests, they are often needed. I've had 3 CTA's (CT angiograms) for my chest, which is a TON of radiation (1 CTA in a year puts you at the max recommended dose of radiation), but without them, the doctors wouldn't have known about blood clots in my lungs, and if they were resolving. I can't let myself worry about the radiation when my health at his moment is more important.

From what I've read the issue is that tests are being done unnecessarily, like doing a chest CT when you could have a chest xray, having a CT when you could have a Small Bowel Series, or when having a CT done when doctors would treat you regardless of the results (like having abdomen pain or vomiting, but not severe, or when the dr thinks you have a virus or something). It is good that more studies are being done that bring the radiation factor to the attention of prescribing doctors...you would be amazed at the number of CTs are done for ER patients when patients present with flu-like or similar symptoms.
Posted 6/18/2010 5:42 AM (GMT 0)
It is always in the back of my mind, especially a the year I had at least 4 CT scans. I figure what they find out outweigh the possible risks.
Posted 6/18/2010 11:50 PM (GMT 0)
I worry a lot about this, because back in the Stone Age (03-07) I was getting C-scans like every other week! I think I have an odd glow these days..

Matthew
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