A Total Body CT provides a snapshot of the human body, and it allows a physician to gain a clear and detailed look at the body. A Total Body CT scan is a useful tool for doctors and as well as gaining a clear overall picture of the body, specifically targets the lungs, heart, and the abdomen to detect anything that may be wrong with the patient such as a malignant nodule or something else.
Total body scans are useful imaging procedures that give the doctor a full and clear picture of what is going on in a patient’s body. It is a good idea to have a total body scan when the cause of symptoms are unknown and further investigation of the body might be needed. This is especially useful when detecting the signs of dangerous diseases such as cancer or heart disease.
Total body scans are carried out by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) and both of these techniques are able to view inside the body. A CT scan is often faster than an MRI and this is why it is a top choice for many people. It is important to note that a CT scan uses radiation to gain that clear view of the body.
The X-rays that travel through the human body during a total body scan will be absorbed by organs, and any unabsorbed rays will reach the detector at the other side of the machine. This is how an image is created as the parts of your body which absorb the X-rays will light up.
It is important when considering taking a scan to find out what your ailment is that you do your research and inform yourself about the techniques used. A full body CT scan can be incredibly useful for you and allows the doctor to quickly identify a problem area of the body and rule other things out. Consider that you have a bunch of symptoms and you cannot identify what part of the body is the issue. Instead of having to go for blood tests and other tests – a CT scan can find the answer quickly and will allow treatment to get under way without any delay.
Of course as with any procedure there are risks, and due to the use of radiation for a CT scan it is important for you to be sure that this is the right decision for you and your body. When considering the total body CT scan for yourself, the benefits much outweigh concerns and you can get a clear cut answer in a non-invasive procedure and begin the treatment for your illness as soon as it arises.
There are many great reasons to get a total body CT scan and often the reasons you should go for an annual one will actually depend on your age and your health status. As we know, everyone has different medical needs and higher risks to certain diseases, and we want to guide you through some of the reasons and signs you should get an annual body scan to ensure you are healthy.
You should get an annual total body CT scan if:
The reason why you need to consider a scan with any of these criteria is because as we mentioned before the total body CT scan will focus on the lungs and the heart as well as the whole body. If you are obese or have high blood pressure for example, your heart will be under more stress and this can lead to complications and medical issues. If you smoke, you should do this to ensure that you haven’t developed scar tissue in the lungs or even lung cancer.
If you are feeling unwell or you simply want to look after your health in a more proactive way – asking for a total body CT scan is a great idea and it will allow you to see how healthy you are and gain a real idea of what is going on.
It is important to look after your body and to know what is happening within you, and by choosing to get a total body CT scan you can gain all of the benefits of this treatment and have peace of mind.