A CT scan uses what's called “ionizing” radiation. It's powerful enough to pass through your body to create clear images on a computer. This type of radiation could raise your chances of cancer at some point in the future. But it's important to remember that ionizing radiation is around you every day.
Nov 11, 2022A CT scan uses what's called “ionizing” radiation. It's powerful enough to pass through your body to create clear images on a computer. This Types of RadiationHow It's MeasuredRadiation Doses for Common
A CT scan uses what's called “ionizing” radiation. It's powerful enough to pass through your body to create clear images on a computer. This type of radiation could raise your chances of cancer at some point in the future. But it's important to remember that ionizing radiation is around you every day.
Benefits/Risks
Concerns about CT scans include the risks from exposure to ionizing radiation and possible reactions to the intravenous contrast agent, or dye, which may be used to improve visualization. The exposure to ionizing radiation may cause a small increase in a person's lifetime risk of developing cancer.
CT scans are quick, painless and generally safe. But there's a small risk you could have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye used and you'll be exposed to X-ray radiation. The amount of radiation you're exposed to during a CT scan varies, depending on how much of your body is scanned.
