What do my CT scan results of my abdomen and pelvis show?

Understanding Your CT Scan Results

Your CT scan shows normal kidneys and urinary tract, a hiatal hernia, constipation in your colon, and a calcification that is likely a benign fibroid.

Breakdown of Your CT Scan Findings

Abdominal CT Findings:

1. Normal Kidneys and Upper Urinary Tract:

   • Your kidneys and the upper parts of your urinary system appear completely normal on the CT scan
   • This is good news as it means there are no concerning issues like kidney stones, masses, or infections in these areas

2. Hiatal Hernia:

   • A hiatal hernia occurs when part of your stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm (the muscle that separates your chest from your abdomen)
   • This is a common finding, especially in adults
   • Many people with hiatal hernias have no symptoms, but some may experience heartburn, regurgitation, or chest discomfort

3. Obstipation of the Colon:

   • This medical term means severe constipation with hardened stool in your colon
   • This finding explains why you might be experiencing constipation, bloating, or abdominal discomfort
   • This is typically manageable with dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and sometimes medications

Pelvic CT Findings:

1. Normal Lower Urinary Tract and Bladder:

   • The lower parts of your urinary system and bladder appear normal
   • This is reassuring as it rules out issues like bladder stones, masses, or inflammation

2. Calcification Outside the Urinary System:

   • There is a calcification (area of calcium buildup) that is not part of your urinary system
   • The radiologist believes this is most likely a degenerative fibroid
   • Fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths in the uterus that are very common in women
   • When fibroids degenerate or age, they can develop calcium deposits that show up as bright spots on CT scans
   • These typically don't require treatment unless they cause symptoms

What This Means For You

These findings help explain some symptoms you might be experiencing:

• If you've been having constipation, the obstipation finding explains this
• If you've had heartburn or regurgitation, the hiatal hernia could be contributing to these symptoms
• The calcified fibroid is likely an incidental finding and not a cause for concern

Next Steps

Based on these findings:

1. For the constipation: Consider increasing fiber and fluid intake, regular exercise, and possibly over-the-counter stool softeners
2. For the hiatal hernia: If you're experiencing symptoms, avoiding large meals, not lying down after eating, and weight management can help
3. For the calcified fibroid: This typically requires no treatment unless you're experiencing symptoms like pelvic pain or heavy menstrual bleeding

Your doctor can discuss these findings with you in more detail and recommend any necessary follow-up or treatment based on your specific symptoms and medical history.