MRI contrast dye - Gadolinium became a public concern- once Chuck Norris's wife became toxic. He took action to change laws and regulations and continues to fight today for change.

However, MRI contrast is only just one area. CT contrast is also a concern. Last known Barium (contrast) used on me was approx. 10 years ago and I still show elevated levels. I knew that one I couldn't take and therefore have made sure I have not received since.

I still remember that day. It was this orange gritty drink. It was to check on my GI tract as I was diagnosed with Crohns Disease. As soon as I drank that drink , I couldn't stay out of the bathroom. Another gentlemen and I kept going back and forth taking turns going to the bathroom. My body was instantly rejecting that dye. 

Since then everytime a CT was ordered I would tell them I could not have that drink. What I didn't know is once you show allergy to one, you are most likely to develop into another.

"You are at greater risk of an adverse reaction to barium-sulfate contrast materials if: you have a history of asthma, hay fever, or other allergies, which will increase your risk of an allergic reaction to the additives in the barium-sulfate agent.you have cystic fibrosis, which will increase the risk of blockage in the small bowel.you are severely dehydrated, which may cause severe constipation.you have an intestinal blockage or perforation that could made worse by a barium-sulfate agent." Radiologyinfo.org 

I was never informed or aware, until I became toxic. I do know I have had countless amounts of CTs and MRIs over the years. I ALWAYS told them of the allergic reaction. Everytime I went in , a call to the doctor would be made and that drink portion taken out of order. 

Allergy mentioned over and over again. I am allergic to metals. I never knew these dyes contained metal. If I did I could of said something, refused contrast. Instead not knowing.... I was repeatedly allowing known allergies to be injected in me. I do believe my body due to the continual allergic reaction finally just gave up and I believe that is how just 1 single dose of gadolinium caused me to become toxic.

I know many are just looking at MRI contrast, but I believe CT contrast also needs monitoring. Those in intake to ask more quesitons. 1. Informing patients these are metals. Might seem obvious to some, but it wasn't for me. 2. If allergic reaction to one noted , a call to doctor , and informing patients of risks. Explaining allergic reaction to one , makes it more likely to become allergic to another. PASS out pamplets of what an allergic reaction looks like. Signs and Symptoms.

Walgreens and other companies we pick up our prescriptions from provide detail list of allergic reactions and what to look for. Why is it not provided with these contrast dyes?