Radiology·Radiology
CT head
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A CT head scan is a special type of X-ray that takes detailed pictures of your skull and brain. It helps doctors see if there is any injury, bleeding, swelling, or other problems inside your head.
Key facts
- CT stands for computed tomography – it combines many X-rays to create cross-sectional images.
- The scan is painless and usually takes only a few minutes.
- It uses a small amount of radiation, like a chest X-ray but more.
CT head scans are very common in hospital emergency departments and radiology clinics across the UK and worldwide.
Anyone can need a CT head scan, but it’s often done for people with head injuries, sudden headaches, confusion, or symptoms of a stroke.