Does a CT scan hurt?

No, a CT scan is not painful. It is a noninvasive test, meaning nothing is inserted into your body to take the pictures. During the scan, you lie very still on a table that passes slowly through the center of a large, donut-shaped machine. You may hear whirring sounds as the machine works, and you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time so the pictures do not blur.

The one part some people find slightly uncomfortable is simply lying still, especially if the scan takes longer or if staying in one position is hard for you. Most CT scanners only surround part of your body at a time, so people are unlikely to feel claustrophobic.

If you are getting a contrast dye as part of your scan, an injection may involve a brief pinch, but this is separate from the scan itself. If you have concerns about pain or discomfort, especially if you have trouble lying still, tell the technologist beforehand — they may be able to help make you more comfortable.