Why You Can’t Chew Gum Before a Pet Scan
A Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test used to diagnose medical conditions. It involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into a vein, usually in the arm. As the radioactive material moves through the body, a special camera is used to detect the emitted energy which shows the doctor and patient information about the functioning of organs and tissue.
It is important to not eat or drink anything in the two hours prior to a PET scan, and this even includes chewing gum. This is because anything that you put in your mouth has the potential to interfere with the accuracy of the test. Here are some of the reasons why you can not chew gum before a PET scan:
Interference with Radioactivity
Chewing gum increases saliva production in the body, meaning that the radioactive material used in the PET scan can be diluted. This can result in an inaccurate scan and can limit the effectiveness of the test.
Reduced Comfort
PET scans requires the patient to remain still for extended periods of time, which can be uncomfortable. Chewing gum can increase movement of the jaws, making it harder to remain comfortable in the PET scanner.
Increased Swallowing
As explained above, chewing gum increases saliva production in the body, which may result in increased swallowing. This can move the radioactive material used in the PET scan through the body faster and make the imaging process less effective.
Conclusion
Chewing gum is not permitted before a PET scan as it can interfere with the accuracy of the test and overall effectiveness of the imaging process. It is important to ensure that all food and beverage is avoided for two hours prior to the scan for the most accurate results.
2. Why is it important to not chew gum before a PET scan?
Chewing gum before a PET scan is important to avoid because consuming gum can alter the results of a PET scan. The artificial sweeteners and ingredients used in chewing gum can produce false-positive results when undergoing a PET scan, making it difficult for doctors to interpret the results accurately. In addition, the sugar present in some types of gum can interfere with the uptake of the radioactive tracer used in PET scans. This can also result in inaccurate results. Therefore, it is important to avoid chewing gum prior to a PET scan.
5. Are there alternatives to gum to help reduce anxiety before a PET scan?
Yes, there are a few alternative options for helping reduce anxiety before a PET scan. Some of these alternatives include: exercise (e.g. walking or yoga), breathing exercises, guided imagery or progressive muscle relaxation, listening to calming music, talking to a loved one, or practicing mindfulness meditation. Additionally, some people find that taking over-the-counter medications like Benadryl, Valerian Root, or Melatonin can also help reduce anxiety before a PET scan.
4. Is it okay to have food or drink before a PET scan?
It depends. Generally, it is ok to have a small snack or drink four hours before a PET scan. Make sure to check with the imaging center, as they may have specific guidelines on what you may or may not eat or drink before the scan.