bowel CT scan preparation

Overview

A bowel CT scan (computed tomography) is a special type of X-ray that takes detailed pictures of your intestines (bowel) and surrounding organs. It helps doctors see problems like inflammation, blockages, or growths inside the bowel.

Yes, this is a common test used to examine the bowel when you have ongoing stomach problems or other symptoms.

Anyone who has symptoms such as ongoing belly pain, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss may be asked to have this scan.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Ongoing belly pain or bloating
• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation lasting more than a few weeks)
• Blood in your stool (poo)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Feeling very tired or weak

Symptoms in children

• Ongoing belly pain
• Changes in pooing habits (e.g., being constipated or having loose poo)
• Not gaining weight or growing as expected

Symptoms in older adults

• Belly pain that comes and goes
• Changes in bowel habits – especially new constipation
• Losing weight without trying

Causes

Main causes

• Doctors order a bowel CT scan to check for conditions like diverticulitis (infection in small pouches in the bowel), inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's or ulcerative colitis), bowel obstruction (blockage), or tumors (including cancer).

Risk factors

• Age over 50
• Family history of bowel cancer
• Smoking
• Diet high in processed meats and low in fibre
• Being very overweight

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden, severe belly pain or are vomiting and cannot keep fluids down

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have ongoing changes in your bowel habits, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss – book an appointment with your GP (family doctor)

Diagnosis

The bowel CT scan is performed by a radiographer (a specialist in medical imaging). You will need to follow some preparation steps a day or two before the scan.

Tests that may be done

• Before the scan, you may have blood tests to check your kidney function (the contrast liquid is processed by the kidneys).
• You will be given instructions on how to empty your bowels, often with a special drink or laxative.
• On the day of the scan, you will drink a contrast liquid (sometimes an injection is also given) to make your bowel show up clearly.

What to expect at your appointment

You will lie on a narrow table that slides into the CT scanner – a large, donut‑shaped machine. The scan itself takes only a few minutes, but you will need to lie very still and hold your breath briefly. The whole appointment usually lasts about 30 to 45 minutes. You can eat and drink normally straight after.

Treatment

The treatment you need will depend on what the scan finds. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and explain the next steps.

Self-care at home

• Follow the preparation instructions you are given exactly (fasting, drinking the contrast liquid, taking laxatives if prescribed).
• After the scan, drink plenty of water to help flush the contrast liquid out of your body.
• If you feel bloated or have gas after the scan, rest and it should pass.

Medical treatments

If the scan shows a condition like diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease, treatment may include antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory medicines. Your doctor will prescribe the right medication based on your situation.

When is surgery considered?

In cases where the scan finds a blockage, a tumour, or other serious problem, surgery may be needed. Your healthcare team will explain all options.

Living with this condition

After the scan, you can usually return to your normal activities right away unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you had a procedure like a biopsy during the scan, follow any extra instructions.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fibre (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
• Stay active with regular exercise like walking.
• Drink enough water each day.

Diet and exercise

There is no special diet or exercise after a bowel CT scan unless you have an underlying condition. If so, your doctor or dietitian will guide you.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for test results or dealing with a new diagnosis can be worrying. It is normal to feel anxious or stressed. Talk to your doctor or a trusted family member about how you are feeling.

Prevention

Not all bowel problems can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by eating well, staying active, not smoking, and limiting alcohol. Regular check‑ups can help catch issues early.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a serious condition like a blockage or cancer is found and left untreated, it could get worse and become harder to treat.
• Inflammation or infection in the bowel could spread to other parts of the body.

Long-term outlook

The good news is that when bowel problems are caught early, they are often very treatable. A CT scan is a safe and effective way to get a clear picture of what is happening inside your body, so you and your doctor can make the best plan for your health.

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