FL
A 30-year-old female asked:
Is there any way to get rid of radiation from ct scans? risk if cancer. two brain ones and a chest one in a year
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Robert Kwokanswered
Pediatrics 35 years experience
Can't get rid of it: The radiation from the CT machine's x-ray beam is there when turned on and not there when turned off. Imagine a light switch in a bathroom... turn in on, there's light... turn it off, it's dark. So, there is no radiation to "get rid of" once the CT beam is off (the radiation is instantly gone). Doctors will order CT scans when the tiny risk of radiation harm is outweighed by benefits of scanning.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Ed Friedlanderanswered
Pathology 46 years experience
Risk is worth it: The extra radiation you get from a CT scan is equal to the radiation you'd get from living for a season in Denver rather than lower-altitude Topeka. The extra cancer risk isn't measurable; anyone who tells you otherwise is trying to scare you. When these scans are indicated, the risk of NOT getting one is enormous. Stay fit, and best wishes.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
2.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 3, 2015
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