Head CT Scan: What to Know Before You Go

What is a head CT scan?

A head CT scan (computed tomography scan) is a simple and detailed imaging test that enables the doctor to have a look inside in your head (into your brain). It takes about 

It combines X-ray images captured from different angles and utilizes computer processing for creating cross-sectional pictures of your brain, skull, sinuses, and surrounding tissues. It is yet another most common imaging tool that medical professionals use in emergency rooms, trauma care, and neurological assessments.

Doctors advise a head CT scan when you are suffering from symptoms like sudden headache, dizziness, fainting, seizures, or after a head injury. It helps in diagnosing internal problems that are not apparent through a physical exam.

Condition that a head CT scan diagnosis:

A head CT scan can detect a number of medical conditions, especially those including brain and nearby structures. It is crucial in emergency conditions where every minute matters.

Common conditions diagnosed with a head CT scan include:

• Traumatic injuries to the brain (e.g., skull fractures, brain bleeds)
• Stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic)
• Brain tumors and masses
• Brain swelling or inflammation
• Fluid accumulation in the brain called hydrocephalus
• Brain infections such as abscess or encephalitis
• Blocked sinuses or infections
• Abnormalities with the brain structure (e.g., congenital malformations)
• Bleeding or clots from a brain surgery
• Bulging or ballooning in the wall of a blood vessel (aneurysm)

Doctors may also utilize head CT scans for examining existing conditions or plan for surgery.

Factors affecting head CT scan cost in Hyderabad

The head CT scan price in Hyderabad differs upon multiple factors:

• Type of head scan: Test with contrast dye is costlier than the ones without contrast
• Location of your diagnostic center in Hyderabad: Scans in high-end hospitals may cost more than independent labs
• Technology used: Multi-slice CT or low-radiation scans is costlier than the normal ones
• Doctor’s fees: If a neurologist or radiologist is looped in for a quick interpretation
• Need for urgency: An emergency head CT scan price is more than the earlier scheduled ones.

How to prepare for a head CT scan?

There is only minimal preparation required for non-contrast CT scans. However, you can follow these common prep guidelines:

• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant
• Share about history of allergic reactions, especially to ingredients like contrast dye or iodine
• Don’t wear jewelry, metal objects, or hairpins before the scan
• In case of a contrast scan, you may need to fast for 4–6 hours, share any kidney issues or diabetes with your doctor

For younger children or patients who are unable to stay still, medical staff may administer mild sedatives.

Important documents to carry on your head CT scan appointment  

• Your valid photo ID and referral letter that your doctor gave 
• Any relevant previous scan reports or medical records to compare 
• Details of any allergies or ongoing medications 
• For contrast scans, bring recent reports of kidney function (if you have)

What happens during a head CT scan?

It is a short test that can take about 10-30 minutes to complete. Here’s what to expect during a head CT scan procedure:

• You lay down on the motorized table which moves into the CT machine  it’s a doughnut shaped device).
• A technician places a strap or foam pads to make sure that your head remains still.
• In case of a contrast scan, the technician injects a dye via a vein in your arm.
• The machine keeps rotating around your head, clicking softly while capturing images.
• You won’t feel any major discomfort, but it’s important to lie completely still.

The radiology team monitors the scan from another room but can see, hear, and talk to you throughout.

What to expect after your head CT scan?

Mostly, you can go back to normal activities right away. If no contrast is not used there’s no recovery needed. For contrast scans, the doctor may monitor you for 15–30 minutes to check for any reaction. Have lots of water and hydrating fluids to flush the dye from your body.

The radiologist reviews your scan and discusses the results for your clear understanding. Generally, results are available on the same, especially in case of an emergency head CT scan test.

Benefits of a head CT scan

• • Head CT scan is painfree, accurate and non-invasive
  • A major advantage of CT can even offer imaging for bone, soft tissue, and blood vessels simultaneously
  • Unlike conventional x-rays, CT scanning provides very detailed images of many types of tissue as well as the lungs, bones, and blood vessels.
  • In emergency cases, normal head CT scan shows internal trauma, injury, or bleeding.
  • Head scan is affected less due to patient movement in comparison to MRI
  • A diagnosis made after CT scanning eliminates the need for further exploratory surgery and surgical biopsy.
  • No remaining radiation in your body due to a normal 
  • No radiation remains in a patient’s body after a CT exam.

• The x-rays used for CT scanning should have no immediate side effects.

Is a head CT scan risky?

A head CT scan is generally safe and widely used. However, like any test involving radiation or contrast dye, there are some risks. Following are the possible yet rare risks of a head CT scan:

• Radiation exposure during a CT scan is more than a normal X-ray but still within acceptable range. 
• Repeated scans can increase the lifetime risk of cancer 
• Some people may get mild to moderate allergic reactions to the contrast dye 
• Severe allergies to contrast are extremely rare but possible 
• The contrast dye may strain kidneys, especially in people with kidney disease or diabetes 
• Pregnant women should avoid CT scans unless there’s absolute necessity due to potential risk to the fetal development

Who should avoid a head CT scan?

CT scans may not be ideal for everyone. You should avoid or delay the scan if:

• You are pregnant, unless absolutely necessary (risk of radiation to the fetus)
• You have a known allergy to contrast dye (for contrast scans)
• You have severely reduced kidney function, especially if a contrast scan is planned
• You’ve undergone multiple CT scans in a short period, and the doctor can opt for an MRI instead

In such cases, doctors may recommend an MRI or other imaging methods.

FAQs on head CT scan?

• What precautions should I take before a CT scan? 

Avoid wearing metal objects and inform your doctor about pregnancy, allergies, or kidney problems. If you need a contrast dye, make sure to follow fasting and hydration instructions.

• What are the signs that you might need a head CT scan? 

If you’ve had a head injury, unexplained recurring severe headache, sudden vision or speech problems, seizures, or loss of consciousness, your doctor may advise a head CT scan.

• Is a head CT scan with contrast safe? 

Yes, it’s safe when necessary, contrast-enhanced CT scans produce much clearer images. However, inform your doctor if you have allergies or kidney problems.

• Is there a safer alternative to a CT scan? 

Doctors consider MRI when radiation exposure is a major concern. However, CT scans give faster results and are used for emergencies and bone-related problems.

• How long does it take to get results from a head CT scan? 

Preliminary results are often ready within hours in emergency cases. In routine cases, your doctor may receive the radiology report in 1-2 days.

• Can children undergo a head CT scan? 

Yes, but doctors are more cautious due to radiation sensitivity. CT is only advised if absolutely necessary, and low-dose protocols are used.

• Can a head CT detect all brain abnormalities? 

A normal head CT scan can check structural and bleeding issues. However, some soft tissue conditions or early strokes detection often requires an MRI for clearer understanding of the case. 

• Is the scan painful or uncomfortable? 

No, you may not feel any major discomfort during a head CT scan. You are only asked not to move during the imaging process.

• Can I eat or drive after a head CT scan? 

Yes, you can eat or drive back unless your diagnostic procedure involves sedation. You should drink enough water to drain out the toxins from the body.

• Can head CT scan cause cancer?

A single head CT scan involves low radiation and may not cause cancer. Only minimal risk is involved, but repeated scans may increase the chances of cancer. It is better to go for a scan only if it’s a medical necessity.