Dye injection may induce reaction

DEAR DR. GOTT: Could you discuss the reaction to CT scans with dye?

I experienced hives and severe hand problems, particularly with the hand that the dye was injected into. I had the test done 10 days before having surgery. That was two months ago, and I am still having problems with my hands.

DEAR READER: The contrast material used in some computed tomography (CT) scans is harmless for the vast majority of people but can cause allergic reactions in some.

These “dyes” (which are actually clear) commonly consist of iodine, barium or gadolinium. When injected, they contrast with the air and tissues within the body allowing for easier viewing. Some people may experience a warm sensation when the dye is first injected, followed by a metallic taste in the mouth – both of which are harmless and common. With ingested contrast, diarrhea may develop within a few days after the scan, especially with iodine-based contrast, as the material leaves the system.

People with diabetes or those who take metformin can experience problems with the contrast material. Those with known allergies to iodine, barium or gadolinium need to be especially careful in informing both their physician and the technicians before receiving any contrast material.

Unusual symptoms experienced after the contrast is injected or ingested, during the CT or upon completion, should be reported to the technician immediately. In the event of an allergic reaction, the personnel should be capable of providing assistance.

I doubt that your current hand problem (which you failed to elaborate on) is due to your CT scan or the contrast material used. I cannot say this definitively, however, because you don’t provide any details. What was the CT for? How old are you? Are you male or female? Does your hand problem consist of stiffness, redness, swelling or itching? Without knowing the answers to these questions, I won’t hazard a guess as to what the problem may be.

Return to your physician and explain to him or her what is going on. Perhaps you simply have age-related arthritis or some other benign yet annoying condition that can be handled easily. You may need blood work or other testing to check for allergies.

To provide related information, I am sending you copies of my Health Reports “Osteoarthritis” and “Allergies.” Other readers who would like copies should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a check or money order for $2 per report to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title(s).

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 71-year-old female with high blood pressure and high cholesterol. I take medication for both, and for the past two years, my BP has been normal and my cholesterol runs about 185.

How often should I see my doctor for blood work and monitoring of these conditions.

DEAR READER: That is difficult to say. If your blood pressure is stable, it can be monitored anywhere from one to four times a year. My general recommendation is twice a year for those with stable pressures and as often as every two weeks for those who fluctuate drastically until the proper treatment can be found.

For cholesterol, one to four times a year can be normal. More frequent testing may be required for those who are using nonprescription medications in order to ensure the cholesterol levels are lowering. For those on statins, liver enzymes should also be checked at least once or twice a year to ensure that the medication is not causing liver damage.

Because I cannot give you specific advice, I urge you to speak to your physician for his or her recommendations.