15. Exposure to Contrast Dyes commonly used in Imaging
When you go for the blood test, doctors conduct an imaging test to examine your blood vessels. They inject into the blood vessels a chemical called a contrast dye. This is used in cases such as in CT scan with contrast, coronary or heart x-ray. This enables the doctors to see specifically where there is a blocked blood vessel. Furthermore, they can see other problems in the other organs.
It is a procedure that is very significant for diagnosis. It will be impossible to see exactly your problem if it’s not done. They use the dye to see what they will be treating you for. However, this dye can have serious implications for the kidneys. The effect of this dye is referred to as induced nephropathy.
Studies indicate that between 1% and 3% of individuals who receive this dye, their kidneys are affected by it. Everyone is prone to it but the greatest risk falls on those with chronic kidney disease. If you have diabetes, the elderly and chronic heart failure, you risk having your kidneys affected. Although induced nephropathy is rare, you can prevent it from happening. It is vital for your doctors to check your kidneys before undergoing radiology procedures. This should be done even to those who don’t have any kidney problems.
There are various ways you can prevent this from affecting your kidneys. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor to measure your kidney function. Ensuring that you strictly follow the instructions about drinking fluids before going for the tests will help you. Don’t delay to find out from the doctor when it would be suitable to stop taking certain painkillers.
There are some drugs that can cause kidney problems by reducing the blood flow to the kidneys. Contrast dye also decreases the kidney blood flow and these medications should not be used together. The kidneys are the unsung heroes of the human body. Without them, we can’t survive. It’s important to make the right decisions when it comes to the foods we eat and the lifestyles we lead, in order to allow them to function correctly.