Third time

[arthurpops]

I have been diagnosed for the third time now. Am taking liquid morphine as a cough suppressant and went for a PET scan Saturday morning and was told they couldn't do the procedure due to me taking the morphine that morning. Alliance medicals instructions said to take medication as normal, I was justifiably furious with them as I'm now awaiting even longer to find out what's going on, has anyone else had a bad experience with alliance medical?

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Hello Arthurpops,

Sorry to hear about your cancer, this must be a difficult time for you, especially since it sounds like you have already had a journey- since this is the third time being diagnosed. It must have been frustrating to find the PET scan postponed. The Radiology Council advice is to fast for four to six hours pre procedure but to take routine medications as normal, however, some medications for example diabetic drugs can interfere with the result of a PETscan, therefore it is best to check with your own medical team. Most will advise taking 4 hours before if this is possible. Some NHS trusts send out an information leaflet with their specific advice when they book your appointment.

I hope you get your PET Scan very soon and wish you all the best with your journey. If there is anything else you would like to discuss you can email ask the nurse at [e-mail] or call our free phone nurse led helpline number on 0800 358 7200 Monday to Thursday 0900-1700 and Friday 0900-1600.