Radioactive juice

The radioactive juice I had to drink for my CT scan yesterday didn't agree with my body. I felt the battle between the two begin about 10 minutes after I finished drinking the required 1.5 L of "enriched" water yesterday. My stomach and bowels started churning and I made frequent trips to the bathroom.

It's amazing how my body reacted differently during each of the three CT experiences. The first time I drank the CT juice, my bowels kicked up a fuss in the evening. The second time, no reaction whatsoever. This time, my whole body got into the act. My stomach experienced a constant dull pain, my bowels growled, my muscles ached, my eyes felt like they'd sunk into their sockets and my head pounded. I even experienced a metallic taste, which reminded me of my chemotherapy days.

I couldn't work, so I went home and slept.

I don't feel 100 per cent today. I still have a headache and some slight stomach pain, and I'm extremely tired. But I feel a lot better than yesterday, so I'm going to work.

I'm not sure these reactions are all due to the CT juice or if I have a touch of that virus that's circulating. I may also be physically reacting to the stress of my churning mind. But this too shall pass and so I carry on.

The CT itself went smoothly and the actual scan time was quick (especially after the MRI). They scanned me a few times with just the radioactive water as contrast. Then they inserted an additional dye via IV and took a few more pictures.

The IV constrast produces a disconcerting warm feeling that travels through the body. My ears start to burn, then I feel my torso get warm and then it feels as though I've peed my pants. It's over in a few seconds, but it's a bit disconcerting. (At least I was warned about the experience before my first CT or I truly would have believed I'd peed myself.)

Now I wait for the results, which I'll get one week from today. It's going to be a long week.

Tina