Radiographic and magnetic resonances contrast agents: Essentials and tips for safe practices

Table 4 Severity scale, signs, symptoms and management options of adverse reactions to contrast media

Category of reaction	Symptoms	Treatment
Mild (self-limited without evidence of progression)	Hives, rashes and sweats	Patient reassurance usually suffices in some cases
	Nasal symptoms	Close observation till resolution of symptoms
	Nausea, vomiting	May require symptomatic treatment in some cases
	Pallor
	Cough
	Flushing
	Warmth
	Chills
	Headache and/or Dizziness
	Self limited anxiety
Moderate (signs and symptoms are more pronounced)	Generalized or diffuse erythema	Requires prompt treatment
	Tachycardia/bradycardia	Requires close, careful observation for possible progression to a life-threatening event
	Bronchospasm, wheezing and/or dyspnea
	Hypo- or hyper-tension
	Voice hoarseness
Severe (sign and symptoms are often life-threatening)	Laryngeal edema (severe or rapidly progressing)	Requires hospitalization and aggressive treatment by emergency teams
	Convulsions
	Profound hypotension
	Unresponsiveness
	Clinically manifest arrhythmias
	Cardiopulmonary arrest