• Registered: Tue, 12 Oct 2010
  • Posts: 6

Topic: Ideas to help pain during scans?

Does anyone have any ideas of how to deal with pain due to having to lay down and stretch out for a PET or CT scan? My father has had pain in his abdomen for some time, but until recently he thought it was related to the Whipple surgery that he had about a year ago. About a month ago the pain got worse and it became more clear that is probably due to the 2 tumors he has growing in the area. He is now on pain medication, which seems to be controlling the pain for the most part. But when he has to go in for a scan, he has terrible pain. I think it is because of the position he has to be in for the scan. While I haven't seen it, he described it as having to lay on his back, with his arms extending up above his head on the table. Laying down tends to be a more uncomfortable position for my Dad, and I figure having to put his arms up probably makes this position even worse. I was going to suggest putting a wedge under his knees but he said they already do that. I'm thinking my dad can't be the only person out there with this problem. I'm wondering if anyone else has dealt with this problem or has ideas of how to make the scan more comfortable. I would really like to help him find a way to not be so miserable during those scans. If you have any ideas, I would love to hear them. Thanks for your help!

  • Registered: Sun, 14 Nov 2010
  • Posts: 295

Re: Ideas to help pain during scans?

I would mention this to your Dad's doctor and ask them to increase his medication for the day of the Scan.  My son's doctors always said the last thing they ever wanted was for him to have pain and they did an excellent job in keeping his mostly pain free.  They must be able to up your Dad's meds for one day to keep him comfortable.  Good luck - Nancy

Mother of John who lost his battle on Oct. 9, 2009 at age 30....
  • Registered: Fri, 12 May 2006
  • Posts: 8,165

Re: Ideas to help pain during scans?

I agree with Nancy.  Others may have not commented on this problem however, I don't believe that it occurs frequently.  We don't have a single posting regarding pain during CT scan and your Dad should not be having to experience it either. 
All my best wishes,
Marion

THIS INFORMATION IS NOT INTENDED NOR IMPLIED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF YOUR PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
  • Lainy
  • Lainy
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  • From: Phoenix AZ
  • Registered: Fri, 13 Jan 2006
  • Posts: 8,213

Re: Ideas to help pain during scans?

Hi Favoritedaughter. I just had a PET and yes, its on your back with arms above your head. Besides giving him more Meds I am wondering if just a little something under the painful side would tip the picture too much. I know Teddy used to feel better at home when he had a little pillow under his right side.

Teddy ~In our hearts forever~ATTITUDE is EVERYTHING
Any suggestion I offer is intended as friendly advice based solely on my own experience. Please consult your doctor for professional guidance.
  • Registered: Tue, 12 Oct 2010
  • Posts: 6

Re: Ideas to help pain during scans?

Thank you for your thoughts. I will see if the doctor can do something special with pain medication on scan days and also ask if a little pillow would be allowed. Thanks for your help!

  • From: Calgary, Alberta
  • Registered: Sat, 22 Jan 2011
  • Posts: 24

Re: Ideas to help pain during scans?

Favoritedaughter: Please check with your Dr. regarding meds for the scans. Herb takes an Ativan (relaxs him) before his scans. Also, he recently fell and broke his shoulder ... he had a scheduled CT scan of chest, abdomen and pelvis three days later. The technician told Herb that he didn't have to put his arm above his head or lay directly on his back. He said that they are usually able to make adaptions as necessary (ie truama pts) and as appropriate with individual pts. Discuss all options with Dr. and radiology.

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