REDUCING CT SCANXIETYHow to Reduce Stress Levels Before Your Upcoming CT Scan

INTRODUCTION

A CT scan is a computerised tomography scan that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body. There are a number of reasons why you may need to have a CT scan.

The NHS explains that they can be used to diagnose and monitor a variety of different health conditions, including brain tumours, certain bone conditions, and injuries to internal organs such as the kidneys, liver or spleen.

They're also now being used to look at the heart. There will

always be some level of anxiety but here are my tips on how to reduce the factors that may lead to more stress than necessary.

1. DO YOUR RESEARCH

The first step is to understand the process. Whether you are having an appointment with the NHS or a private CT scan, most will follow a similar process:

1. You will lie on your back on a flat bed

2. The CT scanner will have an X-ray tube that rotates around your body

3. You'll usually be moved continuously through the rotating beam

4. Unlike an MRI scan, where you're placed inside a tunnel, you shouldn't feel claustrophobic. Please click here for some advice preparing for an MRI scan.

5. The scan is painless and will usually take between five and 10 minutes depending on the part of your body being scanned

2. CONSIDER GOING PRIVATE

The waiting list for a CT scan can be lengthy. The longer you have to wait the more anxious you will feel on the day. Consider arranging a private CT scan if you have the relevant health insurance or funds to cover it. This is particularly recommended for an MRI scan.

This will reduce the time waiting for your appointment and also mean you are likely to get a little more time and attention.

Not all private health care providers are expensive. Take a look at the database of imaging care centres for one that is affordable for you.

3. SPEAK TO YOUR FRIENDS

If you have a friend or acquaintance that has had a CT scan speak to them about their experience.

There are also plenty of CT scan forums out their offering support and sharing experiences.

Most importantly don’t keep your anxiety to yourself. If you are worried then talk to someone. Your family, friends and doctor are there to help.

4. USE MEDITATION TECHNIQUES

This can be particularly useful for anyone that is worried about claustrophobia or the ability to remain still for an MRI scan. I came across a blog post that described a very personal CT scan experience. The author of the post explained that she focused on the one positive statement from the doctor while waiting for her appointment. She wrote:

“It felt like I was hovering between time, where no anxiety about what has

passed, and what might come to pass, exists. The present moment. It was

a kind of instinctive meditation, an instinct for survival, without which I

don’t know how I would have coped emotionally with my situation, on

top of physically dealing with how very ill I was. By the time I was taken

down for my emergency operation, following the results of my scan, I felt

no fear at all…” Amy Deane, www.springtolife.co.uk

5. TRUST THE EXPERTS

It is the fear of trusting strangers that often causes the most anxiety. Performing CT scans is a daily task for the doctors and nurses that will be looking after you. Trust that it will be fine.

If that is not enough, arrange to come in and talk to them or ask for a little time before the appointment to talk it through.

CONCLUSION

I hope these tips have helped set you on the way to reducing your CT scanxiety.

I have a number of friends who have had positive experiences both through the NHS and privately. However, one of my friends in particular, explained that by arranging a private MRI scan he felt more calm and was able to get his appointment a lot quicker – so there are pros and cons for both.

Whatever you decide and whatever the result, if you lean on your support network – whether it be your friends, family or recommended groups from your doctor - everything really is going to be okay.

CONCLUSION

Relax and trust

the process