What you can expect before, during, and after a head CT scan

You might feel a little worried about getting a head CT scan, but you should know CT scans are quick and easy, and they can give your healthcare provider accurate information about your health. Your doctor will use the results of your CT scan to help diagnose the symptoms you’re experiencing, so you can get the care you need. 

A head CT scan is used to create many highly detailed images of the structures inside your head, like your brain, your blood vessels, and skull, to locate the source of your symptoms. That’s why healthcare providers use CT results to help them make a diagnosis.

We’ll explain how to get ready for your upcoming head CT appointment, what to expect during a head CT, and what happens after your scan. Let’s take a closer look at what it’s like to get a head CT scan.

Why did my provider recommend a head CT scan?

A head CT scan is often used to get a closer look at the structures inside your head, to check for any medical issues. It’s a quick and accurate scan that gives your healthcare provider a clear and accurate look inside of your head.

Whether you’ve had certain symptoms, like headaches, dizziness, or changes in vision, or if your provider needs more information after a physical exam, a head CT scan can provide important details that may help in diagnosing your condition.

Sometimes, a head CT is also recommended to monitor changes over time, or to check for any injuries or abnormalities that might not be visible through other exams. Your scan results will give your provider the information they need to understand what’s causing your symptoms.

How should I get ready for my head CT scan?

Your healthcare provider will give you directions, personalized to your condition and your circumstances, for what to do before your CT scan. Be sure to follow their instructions for getting ready.

In general, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothing that doesn’t have any metal parts, like zippers or buttons. Metal can interfere with the images, so if you have any jewelry, it’s best to leave it at home or to remove it before your scan.

Depending on your provider’s advice, you may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours before the scan. If you take regular medications, your provider will let you know if there are any that should be paused or adjusted for the scan. 

What is contrast dye? Why would my provider recommend contrast for my head CT scan?

Contrast dye is a special substance used in some CT scans to highlight specific areas inside your body, making certain tissues or blood vessels easier to see in the images. It’s not always necessary for a head CT scan, but your doctor may recommend it if they want to get a clearer look at certain areas, such as blood vessels or potential abnormalities in the brain.

The dye is most commonly injected through a vein in your arm, and it works by temporarily altering how certain tissues appear on your CT images, giving your provider a better view. If your scan will include contrast dye, your provider will explain the process to you ahead of time, and address any concerns you may have. 

What to expect during your head CT

On the day of your appointment, you’ll check in with the receptionist at your Gateway Diagnostic Imaging center. Then, you will meet the technologist who will take care of you during the CT scan. Let’s see what happens during a head CT scan, what areas of your body go inside the CT machine, and how your technologist can make you feel comfortable.

What should I expect during my head CT scan?

For your head CT scan, you’ll likely be asked to lie down on a table that slowly moves into the CT machine, which is shaped sort of like a doughnut. The machine then quickly takes images of your head while you remain as still as possible. The actual scan only takes a few minutes, during which you may hear some soft whirring or clicking noises, which is just the machine doing its work.

During your scan, it’s important to stay as still as possible, so the images come out clear. Your technologist might use cushions or straps to help keep your head in the right position, and to ensure you’re comfortable. While the scan is taking place, you won’t feel anything: there’s no discomfort from the machine itself, and it’s generally a calm, easy process.

Will I have to go all the way into the CT machine for a head CT scan?

No, for a head CT scan, you don’t need to go fully into the machine. Since the scan is focused on your head, only your head will be inside the CT machine. The rest of your body will be outside, and you’ll be able to see the room around you.

If you’re concerned about feelings of claustrophobia during your scan, know that the opening of the CT machine is wide, and you won’t be fully enclosed. Please tell your CT technologist if you experience feelings of claustrophobia, and they’ll do everything they can to make you feel at ease.

What can my CT technologist do to make sure I’m comfortable?

Your CT technologist’s top priority is to make sure you’re comfortable and informed throughout the scan. Before starting, they will explain the steps of the scan and answer any questions you have. During the scan, they’ll be able to see you and hear you the whole time.

If you have concerns about feeling anxious or uncomfortable, let them know. They may offer calming techniques, or adjust the positioning to make you feel more comfortable. If at any point you’re uncomfortable, or if you need assistance, you can use the intercom inside the CT machine to speak with your technologist. 

Once your head CT scan is complete, there are a few things to keep in mind as you transition back to your normal routine, depending on whether your scan included contrast dye. We’ll take a look at going back to normal activities, the potential side effects of contrast dye, and what to expect from your CT results.

How soon can I go back to normal activity after a head CT scan?

Most people can return to regular activities immediately after a head CT scan. There’s usually no recovery time required, and you won’t feel any lingering effects from the scan itself. You can likely go about your day, as usual––whether that means heading back to work, running some errands, or just relaxing at home.

If your scan involved contrast dye, your provider might suggest drinking extra water throughout the day, to help flush the dye out of your system. This is just a simple precaution, to be on the safe side, and you should still be able to go about your daily routine without any interruptions.

What are the potential side effects following a head CT scan with contrast dye?

The majority of people experience no issues, at all, after getting contrast dye. In rare cases, some people may experience mild side effects, such as a warm sensation, a slight metallic taste, or minor nausea right after the injection. These symptoms typically pass quickly, and don’t require any special care.

In very uncommon situations, some individuals may have an allergic reaction to contrast dye, which can cause itching, rash, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms after your scan, it’s important to reach out for medical assistance, right away. Keep in mind allergic reactions to contrast dye are rare, and that your referring doctor will have assessed your allergy risk beforehand.

How long will it take to get my head CT results? How are my CT results interpreted?

After your head CT scan, your results are usually ready within a few days. The images from your scan will be carefully reviewed by a sub-specialized radiologist who will interpret them and create a detailed report for your doctor. 

Once your doctor receives the results, they’ll explain the findings to you during a follow-up appointment or a call. They’ll help you understand what the images show, and explain what the next steps will be. This could involve further tests or a plan for treatment, depending on what the scan reveals. Rest assured, your provider will take the time to walk you through the results, and answer any questions you may have.

How to schedule your scan with us

When you get your scan at a Gateway Diagnostic Imaging center, we’ll make sure you have access to affordable, high-quality medical imaging from sub-specialized radiologists and certified technologists. 

Reach out to a Gateway imaging center near you, and schedule your appointment today.