I've just had call from the hospital..I've got a CT scan next week on my lungs, stomach and pelvis..has anyone else had this and is it do

[Trulyfedup]

With R/A?

[Hidden]

Hello BOB here

Tests, are straight forward, may be a little discomfort although you will be ok

All the best

BOB

[Trulyfedup in reply to Hidden]

Thank you...I,ll just take a big breath and take it on the chin. Maryx

[hatshepsut]

If you're not sure why you're having the tests

Ring your nurse and ask. It's a long time to sit worrying! Best of luck!

[earthwitch]

I'd definitely ask why you are having CT scans instead of MRIs - CT scans have quite a lot of radiation so while they can be excellent at showing up some things, you don't want to be having any more of them than you need, if an MRI would do the same job (with no radiation involved).

[Trulyfedup]

Thank you..I've had two MRI one on my head other on liver that was four years ago. I've had three CT one only six months ago on my head and neck as limp (can't spell today) glands in neck were infected. It does seem quite close doesn't it. Also I'm losing weight rapidly (which I don't mind). I have a Barrett's so I think they are a little concerned about that as I keep vomiting, although, I do have to say since off meds for R/A my vomiting has abated quite a lot. Is CT cheaper to do than MRI? Why would they choose one, what's the difference do you know? Mary x

[earthwitch in reply to Trulyfedup]

Definitely make sure the doctor who ordered the scans knows how many CT scans you have had before. I was told that each CT scan has the same amount of radiation as around 120 xrays, and the effect does accumulate in your body. Some doctors seem really aware of radiation amounts, and others don't seem to bother at all. My GP even hummed and hahed about doing a single xray on me because of wanting to limit radiation, even when I told her I have hardly had any xrays in my lifetime. I know I personally wouldn't be keen to have a CT if I knew a different form of scan would show things up just as well, though if it was the only (or best) way to investigate I'd be happy enough to have it.

I think some smaller hospitals have CT scanners and don't have MRI machines, as the machines are cheaper, but also MRIs are a lot more use for a lot more things, so can be quite booked up. You really need to ask the doctor why they particularly wanted a CT scan.

[Trulyfedup in reply to Trulyfedup]

Looking at my records it was the end of July last time I had a CT on my neck and glands. I shall def remind them. Mary x

[Trulyfedup]

Thank you and yes i am a little concerned...I shall ring my clinical nurse tomorrow. The hospital I gi to is quite big and has two MRI s ...I've had MRI s as well. I had no idea CT contained so much radiation..it is a little worrying as in the last 18 months this will be my third one. I shall talk it over with my nurse tomorrow...thank you. Mary x