Having a medical scan done can seem overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. However, with the proper preparation, you can improve the process, the speed of your scan, and the accuracy of the images. Whether your scan is an MRI, a CT or an ultrasound, taking a few straightforward caption tips to get ready for your scan will help ensure the images are clear and precise.
Here’s a practical approach for patients on how to get ready for a scan – from the food you should eat, to what to bring when you come for the scan.
Why preparation is important
Each medical scan is designed to create detailed pictures of your body’s internal organs and structure. Proper preparation will help to limit any risk of movement, metal artefact, and distortion due to food in the stomach, which can impact clarity. Following your doctor’s recommendations, and the procedures for the scan centre, will allow you to prepare accordingly and will lead to the most accurate results with less likelihood of repeat scans.
Places like Sunray Scans in Chennai allow a clear step-by-step procedure for every scan type to help take the stress out of the experience for patients.
- Follow the instructions for your particular type of scan
Different scans require different preparations. Always check with your doctor or scan centre if there are any particular queries. Here is a quick overview:
MRI Scan:
Since MRI utilizes magnets, do not bring jewelry, watches, hair pins, belts, or other items made of metal. If you have an implant such as pacemakers or plates, please tell your technician before the scan.
CT Scan:
Some CT scans will require 4–6 hours of fasting before the test, especially if a contrast dye is used. The dye, when injected, allows for the images of specific organs or blood vessels to be distinguished more clearly and is most optimum when a patient has an empty stomach.
Ultrasound Scan:
If you have an abdominal or pelvic ultrasound, you may be instructed to drink lots of water prior to the exam. Having a full bladder sometimes helps to produce clearer images.
Each scan is different, so always follow the preparation tips provided by your health care team.
- What to Eat Before an MRI or a CT Scan
It can depend on your diet before a scan.
What to eat before an MRI:
With most MRI’s, you can eat a light meal unless instructed otherwise. Avoid foods that are heavy, oily, or spicy that could cause bloating during the scan.
Fasting before a CT scan:
If instructed to fast, avoid food and drinks (water is acceptable) for 4–6 hours before the scan. Fasting allows the contrast dye to work effectively and helps to reduce nausea.
Staying hydrated is important:
Be sure to drink plenty of water both before the scan, and after to flush out the contrast material faster, if it is used.
- Wear clothing that is comfortable
Loose, cotton clothing without zippers or metal buttons is suitable for any scan. Some centers provide gowns for your comfort and safety. If you are dressed in layers, be ready to remove any metal accessories like a belt before entering the scan room.
- Bring your medical record information along with you.
It is important to carry with you all previous scan reports, prescriptions and a medical history. The medical history along with older scans will assist a radiologist in comparing images more accurately by having the old images to compare with the newest images. For example, your scan day checklist might include:
- Previous scan reports and prescriptions
- Doctor’s referral note.
- ID proof and health card if you have one.
- Water bottle.
- Comfort related item, shawl or tissues.
- Managing anxiety, if you are fearful pre-scan.
This is normal, while you may feel anxious, this is a common feeling with the knowledge that you need to be in the MRI machine. If you are fearful, incase of claustrophobia and being in the imaging machine, you should address this with your technician, they can play calming music and communicate through the microphone with you, and even give breaks with communication. Another method would be deep breathing to calm yourself and thinking about pleasant things in life as images can be of varying lengths of time.
- After Your Scan
You may generally return to your regular routine right away after the scan, unless you’ve been given a contrasting dye, in which case you will need to stay well-hydrated and follow any post-scan guidance you may have received. You should have your reports back in a few hours to a day, depending on the type of scan you’ve had performed.
- The Right Scan Center Is Everything for Comfort and Accuracy
Choosing the right diagnostic center makes a world of difference. The best scans in Chennai, such as Sunray Scans, utilize the state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging equipment, experienced radiologists, and the total patient-experience down to the décor and ambiance in their building. If you are going for an MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, Doppler, or other types of studies, it all will go smoothly with care, comfort, and precision.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a scan does not have to be stressful or complicated. With a few simple steps of being mindful around what you eat before an MRI, following fasting before CT scan rules, and having a simple scan day handbook, you will be ready to go.
If you are ever unsure, please do not hesitate to ask your scan center. With consistent quality and care within their advancement in facilities and the staff of experts, Sunray Scans Chennai will have a smooth, accurate, and guilt-free experience in your diagnostic journey, time after time.