Preparation and Special Instructions
Patients having CT exams scheduled without contrast medium require no special preparation. In preparation for a CT Scan with the use of intravenous or oral contrast medium, patients are often asked to be NPO (nothing by mouth) for four hours prior to having the exam.
What happens if you eat before a CT scan with contrast?
Why am I not allowed to eat before the CT exam with contrast? If you have food on your stomach, and get an injection of contrast, you could become nauseated. Aside from your discomfort, there is the danger of throwing up while lying down, which could cause the vomit to enter your lungs.
Can I drink water before CT scan of abdomen?
For four hours prior to your exam, please do not eat solid foods. You may drink fluids such as water, juice, or black decaffeinated coffee or tea. Some CT scan exams, particularly abdominal CT scans, may require that you drink water or an oral contrast so we may better visualize structures within the abdominal area.