Some radiological examinations require an injection of contrast media, an iodine containing liquid injected into the body to enhance x-ray pictures.
Injections of this type are routinely given in most hospitals to enable radiologists to see specific areas of your body (e.g. the brain, kidneys and bladder, arteries, veins, the bile ducts in the liver, joints, spine, glands, etc.).
Most people have this type of examination without any complications. However, mild reactions to the contrast medium can occur. These reactions may include nausea, vomiting, itching and hives. The reactions may pass without treatment or respond quickly to medication. Rarely, more severe reactions can occur, including loss of blood pressure and irregularities of the heartbeat. In rare instances, even death has occurred.
It is impossible to predict which patients will experience a contrast reaction. If you have experienced an allergic reaction to contrast medium (dye) in the past, please advise our medical imaging staff.
Patient with diabetes, kidney disease, cardiovascular disease or who are over the age of 70 are considered to have an increased risk of developing kidney failure. All higher risk patients have a blood test to screen for any current kidney disease.
Although there are risks and possible complications of contrast media, the information gained from the examination will be beneficial in your diagnosis and treatment. Please feel free to discuss any questions or concerns with our medical staff.
These exams require the use of x-rays, therefore, you should postpone any of these exams if there is any possibility that you could be pregnant. If you are presently taking metformin, please inform the secretary scheduling your appointment.