Ct scan with omnipaque contrast dye

[Sooty712]

Hi, I have a CT scan for abdominal ongoing digestive issues on Friday to look to see if their is any Crohns,Colitis,Infections or other causes and it is requiring an IVE of contrast dye Omnipaque.

My question is as i am extreemly nervous about this as i have never had contrast dye before and pass out just having blood tests due to nerves and a racing heart where i get into such a worried state, Has anyone ever had this done and was it all alright as i am very worrid about side effects and reactions.

Thank you all.

[gillianTS]

Hi, yes I have had this carried out and other scans with contrast many times. It is a painless process, you might feel a little warmth but not everyone does. I can fully understand and sympathise with you, I find it very difficult for both injections/bloods and any scans. The only way I get around both is by wearing an eye mask and just telling myself this is necessary to try and find out what is going on with my body. Just tell the people you are nervous and about your racing heart and if you prefer to lie down too, they will be great. The contrast is routine for so many different types of scans.

The other thing I always ask for is the use of a fine needle whenever possible. I suffer from severe bruising and the difference in both comfort in my arm/hand and the bruising for me is huge.

Oh and a tip given to me was to keep my hands/arms nice and warm, the colder you are the worse it is when needles are used. I have a memory of a nasty anesthetist who could not find a vein and really hurt me, the nurses said in future keep warm so I wear gloves and jumper right up until I can 😊

Take care and all the best with your tests.

[Sooty712 in reply to gillianTS]

Thank you so much i will remember to ask for the fine needle as i bruise very easily too, i also have Raynauds so am always feeling the cold slightly more than normal, i was told the same information about keeping warm and drinking more water before hand too and i try like you to always prepare ahead now.I shall stress over all my concerns and worries on the day and fingers crossed i do really hope i am over thinking it all and again thank you so much for the advice. All the very best and i will update to hopefully help someone else in the future on here to feel at ease. 🙂

[bantam12]

I’ve had more scans with contrast than I can count, 5 in one year once ! Never had any problems and a CT is very quick, if you tell the Radiologist you are nervous they will reassure you.

[Sooty712 in reply to bantam12]

Thank you so much. All the best ahead.

[jackdup]

I have had several as well and have never experienced any side effects. I’m sure you’ll do fine. Good luck and try to just relax.

[Sooty712 in reply to jackdup]

Thank you so much i will update to let everyone know how i get on. Fingers will be all crossed.🙂

[Sooty712]

Hi again,

Just spoke with gp and been informed that i also have to drink mannitol as well as have IVE i thought i was just having the IVE and not the mannitol drink.

Quick little question did you guys have mannitol as well and if so how was this for you all ?

Thank you all loads.

[Sooty712]

Just a quick update and hope everyone is well.

Had my ct scan with contrast dye and mannitol drink and what a great experience as everything went well i did not have any side effects apart from pain and swelling in my arm due to me having such tiny veins, am pleased to say that it was all ok and im at home now just need to await the results and fingers crossed it will lead me onto the correct pathway to mend and repair or at least know what is what.

Take care all and again many many thanks.