CT head patient guide

Overview

A CT head scan is a type of X-ray that creates detailed, cross-sectional pictures of your brain and skull. It helps doctors see inside your head without surgery.

Yes, it is a common test used to evaluate head injuries, strokes, bleeding, and other brain conditions.

People of all ages may need a CT head scan if they have symptoms that require a closer look at the brain or skull.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sudden severe headache
• Head injury from a fall or accident
• Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Seizure (convulsion) for the first time
• Confusion or change in consciousness

Symptoms in children

• Persistent vomiting after a head injury
• Unusual drowsiness or difficulty waking up
• Seizure or convulsion
• Fussiness or crying that does not stop
• Bulging soft spot on the top of the head (in babies)

Symptoms in older adults

• Fall with head bump, especially if taking blood thinners
• Sudden confusion or memory loss
• Weakness on one side of the body or face
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Worsening headache with no clear cause

Causes

Main causes

• Traumatic brain injury (e.g., from a fall, car crash, or sports injury)
• Stroke – a blockage or bleeding in the brain
• Brain tumour – a growth in the brain tissue
• Bleeding inside the skull (intracranial haemorrhage)
• Infection or abscess in the brain
• Hydrocephalus (build-up of fluid in the brain)

Risk factors

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Using blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants)
• A head injury, even a minor one in some cases
• Bleeding disorders (e.g., haemophilia)
• Previous stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
• Age – older adults and infants have higher risk for certain conditions

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any of the emergency symptoms listed above
• A head injury if you are taking blood thinners
• Sudden change in vision, speech, or movement

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a headache that doesn't go away or gets worse
• If you have had a seizure for the first time
• If your doctor wants to check for a condition like dementia or hydrocephalus

Diagnosis

A CT head scan is one of the main tests doctors use to look for problems inside your skull. It is often done in an emergency room or radiology department.

Tests that may be done

• CT scan (computed tomography) of the head
• Sometimes a contrast dye injection to make blood vessels or tumours show up better
• Physical examination and neurological tests before the scan

What to expect at your appointment

You will lie down on a padded table that slides into a large, donut-shaped machine. The technologist will be in another room but can see and hear you. You need to stay very still. The scan takes about 5 to 10 minutes. You may hear buzzing or clicking sounds – that is normal. If you get contrast dye, you might feel a warm sensation or a metallic taste in your mouth, which is harmless and goes away quickly.

Treatment

The results of a CT head scan help your doctor decide on the best treatment for your specific condition. Treatment depends on what the scan shows – for example, a stroke, bleeding, or tumour.

Self-care at home

• Follow any instructions given before the scan, such as fasting if contrast dye will be used
• Tell the technologist if you are pregnant, have allergies (especially to iodine or contrast dye), or have kidney problems
• After the scan, you can resume normal activities unless told otherwise

Medical treatments

If the scan finds a condition, treatment may include medications to manage blood pressure, prevent seizures, or reduce swelling in the brain. For strokes, clot-dissolving medicines may be given. For infections, antibiotics are used. Your doctor will explain all options based on the scan results.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be needed if the scan shows a large brain bleed, a tumour that can be removed, a severe head injury with skull fracture, or a buildup of fluid in the brain. Your surgeon will discuss risks and benefits with you.

Living with this condition

After a CT head scan, you can usually return to normal activities right away. If you had contrast dye, drink extra fluids to help flush it out. You may need to wait a short time before the doctor discusses the results with you.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay hydrated, especially if you received contrast dye
• Follow up with your doctor to get the results and any further instructions
• If you have a condition found on the scan, follow your treatment plan carefully

Diet and exercise

No special diet or exercise changes are needed specifically because of the scan. However, the condition being investigated may require dietary adjustments (for example, a low-salt diet for high blood pressure) – your doctor will advise.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for scan results can cause anxiety. It is normal to feel worried. Talk to your healthcare team about your concerns, and consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing or speaking with a trusted friend.

Prevention

You cannot prevent the need for a CT head scan itself, but you can reduce your risk of head injuries by wearing seatbelts, using helmets when cycling or playing contact sports, and fall-proofing your home if you are older.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a condition like bleeding or tumour is not found and treated, it may worsen and cause permanent brain damage or become life-threatening

Long-term outlook

Most people who have a CT head scan find it helpful. The scan gives doctors important information to guide your care. When conditions are detected early, treatment is often more effective. The outlook depends on what is found, but many problems can be managed or cured. Always talk to your doctor about what the scan means for you.

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