The most common worries — radiation, claustrophobia, contrast reactions, pain and results — all have reassuring answers. Most scans use little or no radiation; claustrophobia in MRI can be managed; serious contrast reactions are rare and staff are prepared; most scans are painless; and results come through your doctor. If something is worrying you, tell the staff — they do this all day and can help.
Key takeaways
- Most scans use little or no radiation; ultrasound and MRI use none.
- Claustrophobia in MRI can be managed — tell the team beforehand.
- Serious contrast reactions are rare, and staff are trained for them.
- If you're anxious, tell the staff — they can help.
Feeling nervous before a scan is completely normal. Here are honest answers to the worries we hear most.
”Is the radiation dangerous?”
Most scans use little or no radiation. Ultrasound and MRI use none at all; a chest X-ray is only about 10 days of natural background radiation.[1] Higher-dose scans like CT are used when the benefit clearly outweighs the small risk.[2]
“I’m claustrophobic — what about an MRI?”
MRI involves lying in a tunnel, which some people find confining. This is manageable: tell the team beforehand, and options can include relaxation techniques, a clearer explanation, an eye mask, music, sometimes a wide-bore or more open scanner, or sedation if needed. Many anxious people get through their scan well once they know what to expect.
”Will the contrast make me ill?”
Most contrast reactions are mild and brief (a warm flush, a metallic taste, mild nausea). Serious reactions are rare, and imaging staff are trained and equipped to manage them.[3] Tell the team about any allergies or previous reactions beforehand.
”Will it hurt?”
Most scans are painless. The main discomforts are minor: lying still, the brief pressure of a mammogram, the pinprick of a contrast injection, or the noise of an MRI (you’ll get ear protection).
”When will I know the results?”
A radiologist interprets your scan and reports to your doctor, who discusses what it means. The staff doing the scan usually can’t give results on the day.[2]
The best tip
If anything is worrying you, tell the staff. They perform these scans all day, and a quick word can make a big difference to how comfortable you feel.
Frequently asked questions
What if I get too anxious during the scan?
Tell the staff — before or during. They can pause, talk you through it, or adjust the approach. For MRI, raising claustrophobia beforehand lets them plan options including sedation.[2]
Can I bring someone with me?
Often yes — a support person can sometimes stay nearby, though they may need to follow the same safety checks (especially for MRI). Ask your clinic when you book.[2]
Sources
- RadiologyInfo.org (RSNA & ACR) — Radiation Dose from X-Ray and CT Exams — www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/safety-xray
- RANZCR / InsideRadiology — Radiation risk of medical imaging — www.insideradiology.com.au/radiation-risk/
- RANZCR / InsideRadiology — Iodine-containing contrast medium (ICCM) — www.insideradiology.com.au/iodine-containing-contrast-medium/
