I'm going to be going back to Stanford for some MRIs, CAT scans and a SPECT scan soon. My memories of the SPECT scan were not good ones. Every time, when I had to lay in the dark room I really had to urinate really badly, yet I was not allowed to. It was to the point when I thought I was going to explode or go completely crazy. Another time, I felt extremely dizzy and sick, like the room was spinning around.

I was just wondering if this was normal. Because of this, I've always hated and dreaded the SPECT scan more than any other one.

I believe i had a SPECT scan. It was auwfal. Yes both the dizzyness and the sensation of having to Pee. I also had to pee during and right after a Angiogram. That was an intereting thing.
good luck on your tests.
Becky

yes spect scans... although what i dreaded was the DIAMOX contrast injection.. that made me feel super ill..  i refused it last time... it's not 100% necessary..

I have a few suggestions:
1. Because I'm allergic to sulfur, the doctor prescribes an anti-histamine and prednisone. I take these at different intervals prior to the SPECT Scan.  These seem to help to prevent the negative symptoms that so many people experience. Ask your doctor if he will order these for you.
2. Let the technician who is doing the prep for the scan know that you're concerned about having an accident.
3. Go to the restroom just before the quiet time begins.
4. Wear the heaviest Poise pad that is available on the day of the SPECT Scan. You many not be incontinent at any other time of your life, but for this, it sure helps to boost your confidence.
5. Ask for a pair of hospital pajama pants to change into prior to the test. If you can't make it to the restroom, at least you'll have your own dry clothes to change into afterwards.
6. Be sure to take another trip to the restroom just prior to going into the scan room.
7. If all fails and you do have an accident, don't be embarassed. Trust me, you won't be the first .
Kim

Hi,
I'm glad to hear that it helped. Best part of these tests is when you're all done with them. Hope your results showed that all is well and that you're free from additional testing for a good long while.
Best wishes,
Kim

I don't think you need to get an adult diaper. Just ask for a hospital gown and a bedpan.

From what Theresa and Dr. Steinberg said, I'm still doing pretty well, according to the scans and the fact that I haven't had any more weakness.

Thanks to everyone who replied.