What is contrast material or X-ray dye?
Intravenous x-ray contrast material is a drug given to create clearer images of blood vessels, internal organs, and pathological processes such as tumors, infection, aneurysms, atherosclerotic plaque, and blood clots. Some studies require x-ray contrast material to be given using an intravenous line (IV) that is placed in a vein in your hand or forearm. Contrast material given through an IV might cause a slight burning sensation, a metallic taste in the mouth, and a warm flushing of the body. These sensations are normal and usually go away within a few seconds. Like all other drugs, x-ray contrast material administration is associated with small but real risks. Most patients experience no unusual effects after these injections. Acute adverse side effects are infrequent (occur in less than 5% of patients) and unpredictable. The majority of side effects are mild non-life-threatening events, such as a warm flushing sensation, that require only observation. If you have a contrast allergy y
