Check Your Kidney Health with a CT Scan

MRI Chandigarh
Apr 7
3 min read

Your kidneys do a lot of hard work every day. They filter your blood, remove waste, balance fluids, and help regulate your blood pressure. But what happens when something’s not quite right? Maybe you’re experiencing back pain or blood in your urine or just feeling off and can’t figure out why. That’s when your doctor might suggest a CT scan to get a closer look at your kidney health.

What Is a CT Scan?

A CT scan, or Computed Tomography scan, is a painless imaging test that uses X-rays and computer technology to take detailed pictures of the inside of your body. It can show cross-sections of your organs, tissues, and bones with incredible clarity.

When it comes to the kidneys, a CT scan helps doctors:

Detect kidney stones
Examining cysts or tumors
Spot infections or abscesses
Track kidney size and shape
Investigate causes of blood in urine
Evaluate injuries or trauma

It’s also helpful in monitoring kidney conditions over time or after treatment.

What Happens During a Kidney CT Scan?

If your doctor recommends a CT scan of your kidneys, here’s what usually happens:

Preparation
You may be asked not to eat or drink a few hours before the test. Sometimes, a contrast dye is used to highlight the kidneys better, which might be given orally or through an IV.
During the Scan
You’ll lie flat on a table that slowly moves through a large, donut-shaped machine. The machine will rotate around you, taking multiple X-ray images. It’s quick and painless — the whole process usually takes about 10–20 minutes.
After the Scan
You can go home right away and return to your regular activities unless your doctor tells you otherwise. If you are given contrast dye, make sure to drink plenty of fluids to help flush it out of your system.

What Happens During a Kidney CT Scan?

Why Early Detection Matters

Kidney problems often develop slowly and quietly, without many clear symptoms. By the time you feel something’s wrong, the issue could already be serious. A CT scan helps catch problems early, when they’re easier to treat and manage.

Whether you’re keeping up with a chronic condition, following up on a symptom, or just being proactive, checking your kidney health with a CT scan can be a smart and empowering decision.

When Should You Get a Kidney CT Scan?

A CT scan isn’t a routine test for everyone, but your doctor may recommend it if you’re experiencing:

Persistent lower back or side pain
Blood in your urine
Recurring urinary tract infections
History of kidney stones
Abnormal kidney function tests
Suspected kidney tumors or masses

Even if you’re not showing symptoms, a CT scan might be used to monitor a condition or check how well a treatment is working.

**When Should You Get a Kidney CT Scan?**

Is a CT Scan Safe?

Yes — for most people, CT scans are very safe. They do use a small amount of radiation, but the benefits of early detection and diagnosis almost always outweigh any risks. If you’re pregnant or have kidney issues already, your doctor might choose a different imaging test, such as an ultrasound or MRI.

Final Thoughts

Your kidneys do a lot for you — often silently and without complaint. But when something goes wrong, early detection can make a big difference. A CT scan offers a fast, accurate, and non-invasive way to check your kidney health and give you peace of mind.

Visit MRI Chandigarh to book an appointment for a CT scan. Contact us at 8699572364.