It is essential to know the risks associated with any medical procedure or diagnostic test before they are performed. Luckily, you will have very little to worry about when getting a CT scan or MRI. Both of these scans are safe with very minimal risks.
A low-dose CT scanner uses a small amount of radiation to produce its images, so the risk of any side effects is very low. Additionally, a CT scan is done in a matter of minutes, so there’s less risk of claustrophobia or anxiety for the patient. There is no sedation or medication required for a CT scan, and it’s a quick, non-invasive procedure.
The risks with an MRI are associated with any implantable devices that contain metal. Because an MRI uses a strong magnetic field, pacemakers and artificial joints do not respond well to this type of scan. It is also recommended that you avoid an MRI scan if you are prone to claustrophobia or anticipate severe anxiety while inside the machine.