Why Get a Low-Dose Lung CT Scan and What to Expect

If your doctor has recommended a low-dose lung CT scan, you may be wondering what it involves. What does it show? How can it help? Whether this is your first scan or one of many, it’s natural to want clear answers. This guide will help you understand the process and feel confident about your next steps

What Is a Low-Dose Lung CT Scan and Why Does it Matter?

A low-dose lung CT scan is an advanced imaging test that provides detailed pictures of your lungs while using much less radiation than a standard CT scan. The term “low-dose” highlights the safety of this method, making it an excellent choice for routine screenings or diagnostic purposes. The scan is quick, painless, and non-invasive.

During the scan, you’ll lie on a table that moves slowly through a circular machine, known as a CT scanner. This machine captures 3D images of your lungs with advanced computer processing in order for your healthcare provider to get a complete look at your lung tissue. The entire process is fast, typically lasting only a few minutes.

At American Health Imaging, we believe in helping you Choose Answers, Choose Clarity, Choose You, and Choose AHI. That means giving you the information you need to take control of your care, starting with understanding your imaging options.

What Is Low-Dose CT Screening and Why it’s Recommended

A low-dose lung CT scan uses advanced imaging technology to take detailed pictures of your lungs while exposing you to much less radiation than a standard CT scan. It’s quick, painless, and non-invasive.

During the scan, you’ll lie on a table that moves through a circular machine called a CT scanner. This machine captures 3D images of your lungs using computer processing, giving your doctor a complete view of your lung tissue. The scan usually takes just a few minutes and doesn’t require any recovery time.

Why Your Doctor Chose a Low-Dose CT Scan

Your doctor may have recommended a low-dose CT scan because it offers high-quality images with significantly less radiation. This makes it a safer option, especially if you need regular screenings.

Low-dose CT scans are often used to screen for lung cancer in people with a history of smoking or other risk factors. They can also help evaluate symptoms like a persistent cough or shortness of breath. If your doctor chose this test, it’s because it provides the clarity needed to move forward with your care while keeping your safety in mind.

H3: What Your Scan Can Reveal

This scan gives your doctor a detailed look at your lungs and nearby structures. It can detect lung nodules, signs of disease, scarring, infections, or other abnormalities. If something unusual is found, your doctor will explain what it means and whether you need follow-up tests.

In many cases, the scan shows that everything looks normal, which can give you peace of mind. If there are findings that need attention, catching them early can lead to better treatment options and outcomes. Your doctor will guide you through the results and help you understand what comes next.

How to Prepare for Your Low-Dose Lung CT Scan

Getting a low-dose lung CT scan is simple, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident. A few easy steps—like wearing the right clothing and understanding any guidelines for eating, drinking, or medications—can make your appointment go smoothly. While the scan itself is quick and painless, preparing properly helps ensure the best image quality. This guide walks you through what to do before your scan so you can arrive ready and relaxed.

What to Wear for Your CT Scan (Clothing Guidelines)

Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothes without metal. Metal can interfere with the scan images, so avoid zippers, buttons, or decorations made of metal. If your outfit includes metal, you may be asked to change into a medical gown.

Remove all jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, and body piercings, before your appointment. If you wear glasses or a bra with an underwire, you may need to take them off before the scan begins. Keeping your clothing simple and metal-free helps the process go faster and ensures clearer results.

Pre-Scan Instructions: Food, Drinks, and Medications

Most people can eat and drink normally before a low-dose lung CT scan. You don’t need to fast, and staying hydrated is encouraged. Drinking water before your scan is a good idea.

You can usually take your regular medications as prescribed. If you take medications that affect your breathing or have any concerns, check with your doctor ahead of time. They can let you know if any changes are needed.

What to Avoid Before Your Appointment

On the day of your scan, avoid using lotions, oils, or powders on your chest. These products can affect the quality of the images. If you smoke, try not to smoke right before your appointment, as it can temporarily change how your lungs appear on the scan.

If you’re feeling sick or have a respiratory infection like a cold or flu, call ahead to ask if you should reschedule. Being unwell can make it harder to get clear images. Following these simple steps helps ensure your scan is accurate and stress-free.

What Happens During a Low-Dose Lung CT Scan

Knowing what to expect during your scan can help you feel more at ease. A low-dose lung CT is quick, non-invasive, and guided by a trained CT technologist who will walk you through each step. You may wonder how long it takes, whether your whole body goes inside the machine, or how your comfort is ensured. This section breaks down the process so you can arrive feeling confident and prepared.

What to Expect During Your Scan and How Long Does it Take?

When you arrive, a CT technologist will greet you, explain the process, and answer any last-minute questions. You’ll lie down on a padded table that moves slowly through a donut-shaped machine designed to take detailed images of your lungs. The scanner is open in the middle, so you won’t feel enclosed.

The scan itself takes just a few minutes, but plan to be at the imaging center for 30 to 60 minutes to allow time for check-in and preparation. During the scan, you may be asked to hold your breath briefly to help capture clear images. Other than that, you’ll simply lie still and relax while the machine does the work.

Will Your Whole Body Go Inside the CT Machine?

No, only the part of your body being scanned will be inside the machine. For a lung CT scan, your head and lower body stay outside while the scanner focuses on your chest. The machine is open on both ends, so you won’t feel confined.

The scanner is large but designed to be non-intimidating. It moves around you to take images but never touches you, and the scan is completely painless. If you’re concerned about feeling claustrophobic, let your technologist know. They’ll talk you through the process and help you feel more comfortable.

How Our CT Technologists Ensure Your Comfort

Your CT technologist is there to make your experience smooth and stress-free. Before the scan begins, they’ll explain each step so you know what to expect. If you have questions or concerns, speak up, they’re there to help.

During the scan, your technologist will monitor you from a nearby room and communicate through an intercom. You’ll hear their instructions, including when to hold your breath and when to relax. The scan will be over before you know it, and you can return to your day with clarity and peace of mind.

What to Expect After Your Low-Dose Lung CT Scan

Once your scan is complete, you may be wondering what happens next. Your images will be carefully reviewed to check for any signs of lung conditions, and your healthcare provider will go over the results with you. It’s natural to have questions about when you’ll get your results and what to ask during your follow-up. This section helps you understand the next steps so you can feel prepared and confident.

H3: How Radiologists Review Your Lung CT Images

After your scan, a subspecialized radiologist will analyze the images to look for anything unusual, such as lung nodules, signs of infection, or other conditions. They’ll prepare a detailed report for your healthcare provider, explaining what the scan shows and whether any follow-up is needed.

Your provider will use this report along with your medical history and symptoms to decide what comes next. In many cases, the scan will show that everything looks normal. If something unusual is found, it doesn’t always mean something serious. Your provider will explain what the results mean and guide you through any next steps.

When Will You Get Your CT Scan Results?

Most patients receive their results within a few days. Some providers may access them sooner, while others may take a little longer depending on the imaging center’s schedule. If you haven’t heard back within a week, it’s okay to call and ask for an update.

Waiting for results can be stressful, but your provider will contact you as soon as they’ve reviewed the findings. If everything looks normal, they may notify you without scheduling another appointment. If something needs further discussion, they’ll reach out to talk through the next steps either in person or by phone.

Questions to Ask Your Provider About Your Lung CT Scan Results

When you receive your results, asking the right questions can help you feel more informed. Here are a few to consider:

• What did my scan show?
• Were there any lung nodules or other findings?
• If nodules were found, are they something to worry about?
• Do I need any follow-up scans or tests? If so, when?
• Should I make any changes to my lifestyle or health habits?
• Should I continue getting routine lung screenings?

Your provider is there to support you, so don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Being proactive helps you stay in control of your care.

Schedule Your Low-Dose Lung CT Scan Today    

Reach out to American Health Imaging, and we’ll help you schedule your appointment at a center near you. Our team is here to make the process easy and stress-free.

At American Health Imaging, we offer state-of-the-art imaging technology, expert radiologists, and costs up to 60% less than hospital-based imaging. We’re in-network with 99% of insurance plans and have a 97% patient satisfaction rating. Choose Answers. Choose Clarity. Choose You. Choose AHI.