CT Scan concern

[Teacher919]

Several years ago I had symptoms of a bad stomach virus or food poisoning.  My regular doctor was out of town so I went to one nearby that I did not know at all, a huge mistake.  This doctor was positive that I must have kidney stones. After a very brief exam, he sent me to a local hospital for an abdominal/pelvic CT scan.  I was feeling so bad I could not think straight and foolishly got the scan.  My regular doctor was in disbelief at his quick diagnosis, and said that I got so much radiation for no good reason.  I now worry I will develop cancer from this experience and try to really avoid all forms of radition, if possible.  At this point, I am even afraid of flying and adding to this level which I know is cummulative.  Any thoughts on how concerned I should be about this type of CT scan?  Thank you.

[Teacher919]

Dear Marie,

Thanks for your response.  Yes, I absolutely got a test I did not need, unfortunately.  And yes, a physicist did evaluate the scan for me.  Not having that information with me right now, I think it was approx. 5.2 mSv - way too much, I know.  It was the only scan I have ever had, but like most people, I too have had a (1) chest x-ray and a number of dental x-rays (including one "around" the head - whatever that is called).  I know the abdominal/pelvic CT scan is the worst of many given in terms of radiation dosage.  Too bad, but now I really avoid believing most doctor's opinions in most circumstances.
Personally, I think I have more common sense than most docotrs I have met.  I guess common sense is not very common.  

[MarieMichele]

I don't think there's a real answer to give you.  Did you get a test that you didn't need?  Probably.  Does anyone know what the radiation dosage was?  Doubtful.  It varies by test.  If this was the only CT Scan you ever had, try not to worry so much. Many ladies here, for example, have had CT Scans as part of the diagnostic process for their gyn issues (in addition to ultrasound).  It's not the same as being exposed to a nuclear disaster.  Our bodies can tolerate some radiation exposure over our lifetimes.

Radiation in medicine also saves lives.  For some cancers, it is used as a treatment.

I also worry about radiation in mammograms.  Then there are other things like dental x-rays, pre-op chest x-rays, and environmental radiation.  Cells phones are questionable, too, for those that are heavy users.

If you ever think you have gyn issues, try to stay with a gyn or ob/gyn who uses ultrasound for diagnostic testing.  No radiation, and they can often learn everything they need to learn from those tests alone.