Contrast Agents: Ensuring A Clearer Picture

Contrast agents (similar to dyes) enhance the different rates of x-ray absorption and increase visibility of certain tissues.

When testing the stomach, small bowel and colon, you may be asked to drink a liquid contrast agent. Some find the taste unpleasant, but most can tolerate it.

The contrast agent may also be administered by intravenous (IV) injection. Patients sometimes feel a flush of heat and a metallic taste in their mouth, both of which typically last 1-2 minutes.

Some Patients Experience Adverse Reactions

Please inform technologists if you:

1. Are allergic to any medications, shellfish, or iodine;
2. Have a history of diabetes, asthma, heart condition, kidney problems or thyroid condition;
3. Experience any difficulty breathing, itching or hives after receiving the dye (Most will see these symptoms before they leave);
4. Become short of breath or experience swelling of the throat. These indicate a more severe reaction to the contrast agent. Please alert the technologist of these symptoms immediately so they can be treated.