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PET Scan Side Effects: What Happens After the Test?
By Prashant Baghel
Have you ever been told you need a PET scan and then felt anxious about what would happen next? A lot of people are afraid of the side effects of a PET scan, like pain, sickness, or problems that last a long time. The truth is that a PET scan is one of the safest imaging tests there is. Knowing what to expect can help you feel less scared. We will use very simple language in this article to make you feel calm, confident, and ready for your test.
What is a scan with PET?
A PET scan, which stands for Positron Emission Tomography scan, is a medical test that shows how your body's organs and tissues are working. Doctors often use it to find cancer, see if treatment is working, or see if cancer has spread.
A small amount of radioactive sugar is injected into your body during the test. Don't be afraid of the word "radioactive." The amount used is very small and safe. The sugar moves through your body, and a special camera takes pictures of places that use more energy. This can help doctors find problems.
What Happens During a PET Scan?
The test begins with a small injection of the tracer, which is a kind of sugar mixed with a tiny bit of radioactive material. After that, you lie still for 30 to 60 minutes so your body can absorb the tracer. After that, you lie down on a table that slowly moves through a scanner. The scan itself doesn't hurt. You only need to stay still for the pictures to come out clear.
Do PET scans have side effects?
Most people don't have any major side effects from a PET scan. The test is usually safe, and the radioactive tracer leaves the body on its own within a day. Even so, it's normal to wonder how you might feel afterward. Knowing what the possible side effects are can help you feel better and more ready.
The injection may cause mild side effects
Some people may feel a little different right after the shot. Most of the time, these are very small and go away quickly. Like with any other shot, you might feel a little sting when the needle goes in. Some people see a little redness or swelling at the spot where the shot was given. This usually goes away in a few hours.
Some people say they feel a little warm or flushed right after getting the shot. This feeling doesn't last long and isn't harmful. This just means that your body is taking in the tracer, which is what should happen.
Feeling Tired After the Scan
Some people feel a little tired after the PET scan. Most of the time, this tiredness is mild and only lasts a few hours. It can happen if you have to stay still for a long time or if you were a little nervous before and during the test. Usually, resting helps, and you should feel better soon.
Allergic Reactions Are Not Common
It is very rare for people to have allergic reactions to the radioactive tracer. If they do happen, the symptoms are usually mild, like itching or a small rash. You should tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to medicines or contrast dyes. They can do more to keep you safe.
Radiation from a PET scan
Radiation is a scary word, but PET scans only use a very small and safe amount of it. The radiation is so low that it leaves your body in a few hours. Drinking a lot of water after the scan helps your body get rid of it even faster.
You don't need to worry about high levels of radiation because doctors only order PET scans when they are needed and helpful.
How You Might Feel Right After the Test
After the test, most people feel completely normal. You can go home, eat what you normally eat, and get back to your normal life. Some people might feel hungry after the scan because they had to go without food for a few hours before it. Eating a healthy meal afterward usually makes you feel better right away.
You might just feel better after the scan if you were nervous before it. A lot of people are surprised by how fast and easy the whole thing is.
Can you be around other people after a PET scan?
Yes, you can be with other people after your scan. There is a very small amount of radiation in your body that is not harmful. Some doctors, though, may tell you to stay away from babies and pregnant women for a few hours just to be safe. This is just a safety measure, not because the radiation is harmful.
Side Effects of PET Scans in People with Health Problems
If you have diabetes, kidney disease, or another health problem, the PET scan may need to be changed a little bit. For instance, people with diabetes might need special instructions about how to eat and use insulin before the test. These changes make the scan clearer and more precise.
Most people still do very well and don't have any major side effects, even with these conditions.
After a PET scan, how do you feel?
After a PET scan, it's normal to feel emotional. The test itself might not hurt, but waiting for the results can be stressful. A lot of people are worried about what the scan might show.
You can relax by talking to your doctor, family, or a close friend. Some people feel better after the test by taking deep breaths, doing light exercise, or doing something fun.
After the PET Scan, What to Do
You can do most things as usual after your scan. One of the best things you can do is drink more water. Water helps your body get rid of the tracer faster. A normal meal can also help you get your energy back.
It's okay to take a short break if you're feeling a little tired. You can go back to work or school right away if you feel fine.
Consult Today
Knowing what side effects to expect from a PET scan can make the whole thing a lot easier. The good news is that most people don't have any side effects at all. The test is safe, quick, and doesn't hurt, and it gives doctors important information about your health. Oncare Cancer Hospital has cutting-edge technology, experienced doctors, and caring staff to help you every step of the way if you are worried about cancer or need expert care.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, most people don't feel any major side effects after a PET scan.
The radiation is very small and not dangerous. It gets out of your body in a few hours.
You can eat your normal meals again after the test.
No, the scan doesn't hurt, except for a small needle prick during the injection.
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