To ask If anyone has experience with CT scan and contrast Dye

[Myanxiety]

I'm autistic and have developed health anxiety since covid which is debilitating at the moment.

I'm due for a CT scan with contrast dye for heart issues next week and I've really worked myself up that I'm going to have a reaction to it. I know the chances are low but I'm a full time carer to two people and have persuaded myself I'm going to die which I know is completely stupid!

If you've had this or work in this field please help.

I had one a few weeks ago and like you had never had one before and already suffering with health anxiety... it was absolutely fine. It was a little uncomfortable for me because I had to lay with my hands in the air for half an hour (they were scanning my neck and chest) but the dye aspect was fine just felt a bit weird lol.

I had a CT scan with dye last year, and felt absolutely nothing - I was actually worried that it hadn't worked!

Tell the staff that you have worries, and they will look after you. You'll be fine, good luck!

I'm a radiographer trained in CT and Ultrasound.

Explain to the radiographer that you're feeling anxious and they'll take some time to explain it all and reassure you.
Its a small cannula placed in your arm usually.
They'll tell you when they contrast is going in and give you the heads up about the warm feelings, metallic taste and feeling a bit like you've had a wee.

The contrast used in CT is iodine. Not gadolinium mentioned by a pp. That's used in MRI.

The radiographers are all trained in advanced life support. Have access to a crash trolley and crash team should you be allergic.
That said, I've been doing CT for 18 years and have only ever seen one serious reaction in all those thousands of scans.
Some people have a mild reaction where they might feel a bit sick, but that's even rare.

Good luck you'll be fine.

Thank you so much.