Ever wondered what a Chest CT Scan is and why people get this done?
A Chest CT Scan can help identify any suspicious-looking areas in your lungs, heart, and airways. It gives a doctor detailed images of the inside of your chest to diagnose any issues you might have before they get worse. With this test, doctors get an accurate view of problems like fluid build-up or infection in the lungs.
At Mermaid Beach Radiology, we understand that it can be a scary thought to get an X-ray or CT scan done. We want your visit to be comfortable and relaxing. To help you, we’ll discuss what to expect during the procedure. Also we’ll also answer your queries and explain its health benefits.
What Are Chest CT Scans and Their Purpose?
CT Computed Tomography scans utilise X-rays and computers to create detailed images of the chest. It helps doctors doing lung cancer screening detect any abnormalities in the lungs or other organs.
CT scans are used to identify infections, lung cancer, COPD, pneumonia, blood clots, soft tissues and other medical disorders. It can also track disease therapies’ efficacy.
The purpose of this test is to give doctors detailed information about the chest area and any abnormalities or lung conditions that can be present. It helps them diagnose diseases and monitor treatment progress.
Chest CT scan is a safe and highly accurate procedure that can provide detailed images of the chest area. It will also help doctors identify issues early on and deliver the best treatment.
How the Test Is Performed
As you know what a chest CT scan is, you must be wondering how it’s performed. A chest CT scan quickly produces detailed images of the structures inside your lungs, chest wall, diaphragm. Also, heart, blood vessels, arteries, airways, and more using X-rays and computers.
You will be asked to lie on a table that slides into the scanner. The CT scanner is a gigantic doughnut-shaped machine with an opening in the middle. You must remain completely still while the scanner takes pictures of your chest. The machine makes a buzzing or clicking sound, and you may feel some vibration from it during the scan, but it’s not painful.
The entire process usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes for the chest CT Scan to be done. A CT scan generates significantly more detailed images than a standard X-ray. You don’t have to take any special precautions after the procedure unless told by your doctor.
What Are Some Common Uses of the Procedure
A chest CT scan can be utilised to diagnose a variety of medical problems, from infections to cancers. Below are the following uses of a chest CT scan:
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Diagnose infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, and tuberculosis.
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Lung, lymphoma, and mesothelioma detection.
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Assess the size of tumours or abnormalities in the chest.
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Evaluate damage caused by trauma to the chest wall.
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Detects and monitors chronic diseases like COPD and emphysema.
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Monitor the treatment progress of your medical condition and treatments.
Chest CT scans demonstrate various lungs disorders, such as:
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Benign and malignant tumours
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Tuberculosis
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Inflammation or other diseases of the pleura (the covering major blood vessels of the lungs)
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Congenital abnormalities
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Pneumonia
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Bronchiectasis and cystic fibrosis
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Interstitial
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Chronic lung disease
How Do I Prepare for a CT Scan
After learning about the most prevalent applications of this technique, you may be asking how to prepare for a chest CT scan. These are the things you need to keep in mind before your appointment:
Clothing
Imagine getting dressed up for a big function only to have to change as soon as you get there. That could happen in some cases. Wear comfy, easy-to-remove garments to avoid wardrobe mishaps.
Plus, you never know when you might have to part with all your metal accessories – even your trusty glasses. So next time you’re getting ready, think twice about that chunky necklace or statement belt. Who knows, it might save you some hassle in the end.
Precautions
CT scans require a small amount of radiation. However, it’s only a precaution to ensure everything looks nice. Moreover, your body absorbs little radiation, which won’t hurt it.
However, if you’re pregnant or suspect, you could be. It’s crucial to inform your doctor before your scan. Better safe than sorry, right? Ask questions and voice concerns about your health and safety.
Diabetics
Before any scans, diabetics should make sure their blood sugar is steady. Otherwise, the procedure may have negative effects. Your doctor will recommend you eat a light breakfast or lunch three hours earlier than the scan time.
This will help regulate your glucose levels and give you the best possible results. Drink plenty of water before and after your scan, diabetic or not. Staying hydrated is key to a successful procedure.
Allergy
Better safe than sorry is a common health-related saying. When it comes to allergies, this is completely accurate. If you suspect an allergic reaction or response, see a doctor immediately.
Your doctor needs to know about any potential allergens before prescribing medications or treatments. Discover your allergies and manage your symptoms with your doctor.
Medication
Many people take medication every day, but imaging studies like chest CTs need you to follow your doctor’s instructions. While you can generally continue taking your regular medications leading up to the day of the procedure, certain drugs can interfere with the imaging process or image results.
Before the scan, your doctor may advise you to cease using blood thinners and other drugs. And if you’re a coffee or cocktail lover, you may need to switch it up beforehand too.
The Benefits of a Chest CT Scan
A chest CT scan, like any other medical exam, can be a frightening and unpleasant experience. However, this test is vital to medical diagnosis and treatment. But this procedure has a number of advantages, such as:
Quick and Accurate Results
One tool that has been a lifesaver is the chest CT scan. This scan produces crystal-clear images of the chest cavity. It allows doctors to easily identify any potential ailments like issues with the lungs, heart, ribs, or aorta.
By pinpointing these issues, physicians can accurately diagnose and treat any underlying medical diseases that may be causing symptoms. If you or a loved one needs a chest CT scan, it’s a great tool for fast, precise findings.
Comprehensive Examination
Are you due for a chest CT scan? Though easy, it’s complicated. To get the most out of this medical imaging test, doctors may take customised approaches to ensure a comprehensive examination.
It might involve taking multiple images from different angles or using specialised techniques to gain a deeper understanding of what’s going on in your chest cavity. By doing so, doctors can diagnose and treat any issues more effectively.
Non-Invasive
Have you ever undergone a medical treatment that involved insertion? You know how uncomfortable and awful it is. That’s why a chest CT scan is such a game-changer.
Not only does it provide incredibly accurate results. But it also does so without any invasive procedures. That means no pain, no discomfort, and no added stress. Remember the wonderful benefits of a non-invasive chest CT scan next time you need a diagnostic exam.
Low Radiation Exposure
Medical scans, especially those involving radiation, can be nerve-wracking. However, when it comes to chest CT scans, you can get a deep breath and relax.
The level of radiation emitted during these scans is incredibly low. It eliminates long-term health concerns. In fact, doctors use special techniques to minimise exposure and keep you safe throughout the entire process.
Cost Effective
Let’s talk about the cost-effectiveness of chest CT scans. We all know that healthcare and medical procedures can be expensive, but a chest CT scan is actually a pretty affordable option.
Doctors can examine your organs in one place. It allows them to catch any potential issues early on. Think of all the time and money you’ll save by avoiding multiple appointments or additional tests.
No Unpleasant Side Effects
Chest CT scans have no side effects, which is a major benefit. It’s nice to know you won’t feel nauseated or in chest pain afterwards, especially because other medical treatments can make chest symptoms make you feel bad.
CT scans are quick and non-invasive. Chest CT scans are a rapid and painless way to assess lung health.
Conclusion
A chest CT scan helps doctors diagnose and treat lung problems. With minimal radiation exposure, quick results, affordability, and no side effects, it’s easy to see why people turn to this procedure time and again.
So if you’re short of breath or have trouble breathing or chest discomfort, have a chest CT scan. Your doctor can start treating you sooner if you do it.
So don’t forget to consider the above info when you’re making your choice. At Mermaid Beach Radiology, we prioritise your safety and comfort. So don’t hesitate and start by making an appointment today. Good luck!
World-Class Radiology
Mermaid Beach Radiology offers a new direction in class leading imaging technology, innovation and research in private practice. We use our superior technical capabilities to provide an expedited and more confident diagnosis to enhance clinical decision making and improve the lives of our clients.
