Contrast side effects

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Contrast in diagnostic imaging is an advanced technique used for computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound. This allows the doctor to detect abnormalities inside the body and diagnose the disease. So do contrast agents in imaging cause side effects?

1. What are contrast agents and how do they work?

Contrast is used in diagnostic imaging by being introduced into the body before imaging tests. Accordingly, this drug temporarily changes the color of certain parts or tissues in the body, helping to distinguish the "contrast" area from the surrounding areas. Contrast enters the body in one of three ways: by mouth or by rectal injection, or by intravenous or arterial injection.
In X-ray imaging and computed tomography (CT), the commonly used contrast agent is a compound containing iodine and barium-sulphate. These compounds have the ability to block or limit the passage of X-rays. In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the most commonly used contrast agent is Gadolinium. In echocardiography and cardiac examination, the main contrast agent is saline and air.

2. Are the side effects of contrast dye dangerous?

In general, contrast is a safe drug because the contrast can be eliminated in the urine or faeces. However, patients may experience some mild to severe side effects from contrast agents. Serious reactions related to the side effects of contrast agents are very rare. Specific side effects depend on the type of contrast agent.
MORE: Contrast elimination process
2.1 Side effects of barium sulfate-containing contrast media Subjects with a history of asthma, allergic diseases, cystic fibrosis, severe dehydration due to constipation or another cause, obstruction or perforation of the bowel, there is a higher risk of adverse reactions due to the side effects of barium sulfate contrast media.
Side effects of barium sulfate-containing contrast agents include: stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation. If the above symptoms become severe or do not go away, you have itching, red skin, swollen throat, trouble breathing or swallowing, hoarseness, agitation, confusion, fast heartbeat, blue skin, tell your doctor. as soon as possible for prompt treatment.
2.2 Iodine Contrast Side Effects Patients may experience mild, severe, and moderate side effects of iodinated contrast media. Most patients will develop a mild rash a few hours after the administration of the contrast agent. Severe cases should be discussed with a doctor as medication may be required.
Mild reactions include: nausea and vomiting, headache, itching, hot flashes, mild rash. More seriously, the side effects of contrast can cause severe skin rash, wheezing, irregular heartbeat, high or low blood pressure, shortness of breath, or trouble breathing. Serious side effects of contrast medium include difficulty breathing, cardiac arrest, swelling of the throat or other parts of the body, seizures, and low blood pressure.

Be aware of the risk of kidney disease as a side effect of intravenous or arterial iodinated contrast agents. In patients with pre-existing problems with kidney function, kidney disease may worsen within a few days of contrast media administration. If you have impaired kidney function, your doctor will evaluate the benefits and risks to recommend an appropriate course.
2.3 Gadolinium Contrast Side Effects Some patients with kidney disease undergoing MRI scans and exposed to gadolinium-containing contrast have systemic fibrosis of renal origin (NSF). Systemic fibrosis of renal origin (NSF) is thickening and scarring of the renal connective tissue. Although this is a rare complication, gadolinium-containing contrast agents should be avoided in people with severe kidney disease.

3. Contrast drug allergy occurs in which case?

Some cases of contrast allergy have occurred in clinical practice. Therefore, tell your doctor about any history of allergies to contrast dyes, food allergies, allergies to drugs, dyes, preservatives, animal meat, any medications you are taking, including herbal supplements. fig.

You should also tell your doctor about your medical history, surgery or other medical conditions, history of asthma, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid problems or anemia. sickle cell disease, polycythemia vera, and myeloma. In addition, if you are taking medications such as beta-blockers, NSAIDs, interleukin 2 or have received a large amount of contrast medium within 24 hours, you should also inform your doctor to avoid drug interactions.
Contrast side effects can cause potential risks to the baby in the womb, especially contrast agents containing gadolinium. Before undergoing an imaging test, pregnant women should talk to their doctor about choosing the right contrast medium. In addition, mothers should not breastfeed for 24 to 48 hours after using intravenous contrast.
Contrast is used in a number of imaging techniques, helping doctors observe images on the body, early detect lesions and pathological conditions. In order for the image to be accurate, as well as to limit the side effects of contrast agents, patients should choose reputable and good quality medical facilities to perform. By the fact that there have been cases of acute renal failure due to contrast.
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Reference sources: radiologyinfo.org, webmd.com