“Is PET scan safe?”
My friend will have a PET scan. Is PET scan safe?
2 Answers
Yes, PET scans are generally considered safe. Reason being, you’re given a low radiation dose, it’s a short lived tracer, and there are minimal side effects.
The amount of radiation exposure from a PET scan is relatively low, similar to what you'd receive from natural background radiation over several years.
The radioactive tracer used in a PET scan has a very short half-life, meaning it quickly decays and is eliminated from your body.
Most people experience no side effects from a PET scan. Some may feel a slight pinch from the injection of the tracer, and rarely, allergic reactions can occur.
It’s important to note that you should be cautious about getting PET scans if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the radiation could potentially harm the fetus/ baby.
The amount of radiation exposure from a PET scan is relatively low, similar to what you'd receive from natural background radiation over several years.
The radioactive tracer used in a PET scan has a very short half-life, meaning it quickly decays and is eliminated from your body.
Most people experience no side effects from a PET scan. Some may feel a slight pinch from the injection of the tracer, and rarely, allergic reactions can occur.
It’s important to note that you should be cautious about getting PET scans if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the radiation could potentially harm the fetus/ baby.
PET scans utilize radioactive material which is not something you want to put in your body unless necessary.
Always best to discuss the alternative if that is a concern. Ask your physician if the frequency of PET scan can also be limited so as to reduce your exposure to radioactive material.
Always best to discuss the alternative if that is a concern. Ask your physician if the frequency of PET scan can also be limited so as to reduce your exposure to radioactive material.
