# Is a CT scan painful? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/is-ct-scan-painful Language: en Category: tests Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.353Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.353Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/is-ct-scan-painful No, a CT scan itself is not a painful procedure. During the exam, you will lie quietly on a table that moves slowly through a large, donut-shaped machine. The X-ray tube rotates around your body to create detailed images. You may hear slight humming sounds as the machine rotates, and you may be asked to hold your breath for very short periods to obtain clear images, but these procedures do not cause pain [\[1\]](). ## How does a CT scan work? A CT scan relies on using a special X-ray device to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body's internal organs, bones, and other tissues. These images can be compared to "slices" of the body and provide more detailed information than traditional X-rays [\[1\]](). The machine captures a series of these slices, which can then be combined by a computer to create a three-dimensional (3D) view of the examined area [\[2\]](). This technology helps doctors diagnose and monitor many health conditions, such as fractures, tumors, blood clots, and lung diseases [\[1\]](). ## What to expect during the exam? Before the exam, you may be asked to change your clothes and remove any jewelry or metal objects that could interfere with the images [\[1\]](). You will lie on the exam table, which will move slowly inside the scanning machine. It is essential to remain completely still during the exam, as any movement may result in blurry images [\[3\]](). You may be asked to hold your breath for short, specific periods, especially when examining certain areas like the abdomen or chest. The exam usually takes a few minutes, but some scans may last up to 30 minutes, depending on the area being examined [\[1\]](). ## Using contrast material (dye) In some CT scan cases, a contrast material (dye) may be used to make certain parts of the body appear more clearly in the images [\[1\]](). This material can be administered in several ways: - **Orally:** A liquid containing the contrast material is drunk, which usually has a chalky or flavored taste [\[3\]](). - **Intravenously:** The contrast material is injected into a vein in the arm or hand [\[3\]](). You may feel a slight burning sensation, a metallic taste in the mouth, or a feeling of warmth in the body for a few seconds; these symptoms are normal and disappear quickly [\[3\]](). - **Rectally:** In some rare cases, the contrast material may be given rectally [\[1\]](). If you are to receive contrast material, you may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours before the exam [\[1\]](). It is important to inform your doctor if you have any previous allergies to contrast materials, if you suffer from kidney problems, or if you take certain medications like metformin for diabetes, as intravenous contrast can affect kidney function [\[3\]](). ## After the CT scan After the exam is finished, most people can return to their usual daily activities immediately [\[1\]](). If you were given contrast material, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids to help flush it out of your body [\[1\]](). The radiologist reviews and analyzes the images, then shares the results with your treating physician [\[1\]](). For more information about this exam, you can visit [CT Scan: When is it necessary and how does it work? (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [CT Scans]() - [Computed Tomography (CT)]() - [Abdominal CT scan]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/is-ct-scan-painful#answer