Tool-Medical Imaging Guide | MRI vs CT Scan vs X-Ray

bykkseth -
steoporosis

Bones appear less white (radiolucent), thinned cortex — reduced bone density, fracture risk.

Patient Preparation & Tips

What to do before, during and after each scan

🧲 Before Your MRI

  • 🔩
    Remove ALL metal: jewellery, hairpins, hearing aids, piercings.
  • 💳
    Leave credit cards outside — magnetic field erases the strip.
  • 🫀
    Inform team of pacemaker, cochlear implant, metallic implants — may be contraindicated.
  • 🍽️
    Fasting usually not needed unless abdominal MRI with contrast.
  • 😤
    If claustrophobic, ask about open MRI or mild sedation options.
  • 👶
    Inform if pregnant — MRI is preferred over CT but 1st trimester caution applies.

🌀 Before Your CT Scan

  • 🍽️
    Fast 4–6 hours if contrast dye is planned (reduces nausea risk).
  • 💧
    Drink plenty of water before and after — helps kidneys flush the contrast dye.
  • 🩺
    Inform of allergy history — iodine contrast can cause reactions in some.
  • 💊
    Metformin (diabetes drug) should be paused 48h before contrast CT — ask your doctor.
  • 🤰
    Always inform if pregnant — CT uses radiation, avoid unless critical.
  • 🧪
    Kidney function test (creatinine) may be needed before contrast use.

☢️ Before Your X-Ray

  • 👗
    Wear loose comfortable clothing; you may be given a hospital gown.
  • 💍
    Remove jewellery, belts and metallic objects from the area being scanned.
  • 🤰
    Tell the technician if pregnant — a lead shield will be provided.
  • 🍽️
    No fasting needed for most X-rays. Barium swallow studies are an exception.
  • 🧘
    Hold still and hold your breath when asked — even slight movement blurs the image.
  • 📋
    Bring prior X-rays for comparison — helps radiologist spot changes over time.

⚠️ Important Reminders for All Scans

  • 🚫
    Never self-refer — always get a doctor's prescription. The right test depends on clinical history, not just symptoms.
  • 📋
    Bring your reports to every follow-up. Digital copies on phone are useful in emergencies.
  • 🤝
    Ask questions — you have the right to understand why a specific scan is ordered and what it might find.
  • 💊
    Medication list — share a full list including supplements; some affect contrast dye metabolism.
  • 🧒
    Children & elderly need adjusted protocols — ensure the facility has paediatric/geriatric imaging experience.

📋 Medical Imaging Companion Guide · For educational purposes only

Always follow your doctor's advice · This guide does not replace medical consultation

Health+C0de · 102 Not Out · Happiness Always Along With Life


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