How do you feel after a pet scan?

Are you anxiously awaiting your PET scan results? Is the thought of being stuffed in that tube giving you sweaty palms? Fear not! In this article, we will cover what a PET scan is and how to prepare yourself for it. We’ll also delve into how you might feel after a PET scan and the possible side effects.

What is a PET Scan?

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) uses radioactive isotopes to create images of organs and tissue within your body. A low dose of radiotracer is administered through injection or inhalation, which then makes its way through your body’s tissues. It emits gamma rays upon contact with certain molecules inside you (pretty cool stuff!).

A scanner picks up these emissions and creates an image based on all the photons detected by its sensor array. Essentially, this allows doctors to see beyond X-rays or MRIs’ standard levels as they can more accurately differentiate between healthy cells from cancerous ones.

How to Prepare for Your PET Scan

Like any medical imaging procedure, there are things that need consideration when preparing for them – here’s what you should know:

Dress comfortably

You’ll be lying down on an exam table during much of the examination period (so please don’t wear anything too restrictive…or those pants with 100 belt loops!) Also worth mentioning: comfortable clothes make waiting around easier.

Avoid eating for several hours before

Your physician may ask you to fast anywhere between four-six hours; however, some restrictions vary depending on individual cases (might want to bring snacks in case they aren’t able until later)
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Speak Up!

Let them know about any health concerns regarding pregnancy and any medications/supplementary vitamins(such as iron supplements).

Relax

Easier said than done when going under big medical examinations(more difficult if someone mocks yoga breaths at you!), but it is possible. Read a book, listen to music or engage in small talk with the staff.

How Do You Feel After a PET Scan?

The answer depends on one big factor: why did you get the scan? Which part of your body was scanned and how healthy are you generally(Yes, these studies can still affect your general health status!).

Here are three possibilities:

1. No side effects

Don’t start worrying too much if you’re carrying out follow-up imaging after previous surgeries(less anxiety when given some leeway, right?) or under surveillance for an early diagnosis—low dose radiotracer scans mostly don’t cause significant problems. They might make me feel warm and flush(A vascular response to the contrast injection).

2. Fatigue

The physical activity prior(walking long distances) coupled; coupled with pre-scan jitters might leave anyone feeling tired afterwards(might want that nap scheduled into planner since things could be tough ahead!). Drinking fluids, especially water afterward can help alleviate this temporary condition.

### 3. Radiation Exposure-Related Illnesses

Riskier exploratory tests like diagnostic-level exposure/ scans may result in unusual numbness surrounding facial areas/lips (more reasons against self-diagnosis based on internet searches) One more risk includes developing thyroidal issues due to absorption of radioactive material by said gland – It’s noteworthy that excessive warning signs ring only for selected cases and generally any reported toxicity from PET procedures is picked up way before such complications reach any critical stages(at least that’s what I’ve heard… Rumor mill at work!)

It’s significant to remember here; however daunting they may seem – ALL medical procedures come down to weighing up the potential risks against their subsequent positives.

PET Scans hold their own fair share of medical uncertainties but have significantly contributed towards battling complex medical conditions/disorders so far. Ultimately, the procedure’s aftermath entirely depends on multiple consequences like past health conditions/ the ailment body part was under examination(Lifes full of unknowns as always) Remember to adhere to instructions provided by either your doctor or certified technologists before scheduling. So, next time you undergo one—and are considering more strenuous post-scan activities(hike perhaps?)—know there’s wisdom in letting your body get some rest first!

Dane Raynor

Hey there, I’m Dane Raynor, and I’m all about sharing fascinating knowledge, news, and hot topics. I’m passionate about learning and have a knack for simplifying complex ideas. Let’s explore together!