Diagnostic Imaging in Budapest

Diagnostic imaging, also known as medical imaging, describes a variety of techniques to look inside the body to diagnose the cause of an injury or illness, as well as to find any signs of a health condition. It is also used to see how well your body responds to treatment for an illness or fracture. 

Many diagnostic imaging tests are noninvasive and painless. Some tests use a small amount of radiation exposure. Some require you to remain still inside a machine for a long time, which may cause little discomfort. 

Other diagnostic tests involve the insertion of a small camera attached to a thin, long tube (often referred to as a “scope”) into your body. These types of diagnostic tests are invasive and require anesthesia.

Some of the most common types of diagnostic imaging tests are as follows:

• X-ray is among the most well-known diagnostic imaging tests. It generates images that allow your doctor to see if there is any damage or injury to the bones.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan, also known as “cat scan,” is a test that combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles. It is often used to quickly examine people who could have internal injuries. It can help doctors evaluate the brain, spine, abdomen, chest, and neck.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnet to obtain an image of the body instead of radiation. It is most commonly used to examine spinal cord and brain anomalies, joint abnormalities, and tumors.
• Ultrasound, also known as sonography, uses high-frequency waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is most commonly used to examine a fetus during pregnancy. However, it can also be used to examine a wide range of body parts, including the heart, joints, and bladder.
• Mammography is a type of x-ray image of the breast. It can be used to check for early breast cancer signs that cannot be felt through the use of a low-dose x-ray.
• A diagnostic biopsy is the main method doctors use to diagnose most types of cancer. It involves the removal of a piece of tissue or cell sample to be analyzed in a laboratory.

• Endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy involve the insertion of a thin, flexible scope with a video camera attached to its end through a passageway or bodily opening to look at the inside of a particular organ, such as the colon or the lungs.

How Long Should I Stay in Budapest?

You can usually leave the hospital straight away after diagnostic imaging tests. However, it is advisable that you stay in Budapest for 5 to 7 days to wait for the results. Once the results are ready, you will have to attend a follow-up appointment where your doctor explains the results and discuss the treatment plan, if needed.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Most diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and CT scan, do not require any recovery time. However, you may need to take one or two days off work and avoid strenuous activities for several days after some types of diagnostic biopsy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy.

What Aftercare is Required?

There is usually no special aftercare or restrictions after diagnostic imaging tests. You may be advised to drink plenty of water immediately after, especially if contrast was used. If the procedure is invasive, your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to care for the wounds. 

What's the Success Rate?

Diagnostic imaging tests have high success and accuracy rates. The continuous improvement and advancement of diagnostic imaging technology have transformed healthcare, allowing for earlier diagnosis of many medical conditions, reduces the need for invasive processes. The side effects of diagnostic imaging tests are very minimal, such as slight discomfort, pain, swelling, and bruising.

Are there Alternatives?

There are no alternatives to diagnostic imaging. It is vital for the diagnosis of medical conditions, allowing your doctor to decide the best treatment or management plan.

Diagnostic Imaging in and around Budapest

About Budapest

Budapest is the capital of Hungary and with A population of over 1.7 million, it is the most populous city in the country. Budapest is made up of three unified cities, Buda and Óbuda on the west bank of Danube and Pest on the east bank. The city is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Its historic monuments, charming architecture, healing thermal waters, wonderful food, and lively nightlife draw millions of people each year.

Nowadays, an increasing number of people have chosen Budapest as their medical tourism destination thanks to its well-known excellent healthcare. Dental treatments along with cosmetic and plastic surgery are the most popular treatment that attracts medical tourists to Budapest. Premium Plastic Surgery Clinic and Dr. Molnar Clinic are two of the highest ranked medical facilities in Budapest. Medical tourists come to Budapest for the following reason:

• Experienced, highly qualified doctors and surgeons.
• The best and most modern medical facilities.
• A friendly environment with English speaking staff.
• Medical treatment at significantly lower prices.
• Beautiful city to enjoy while recovering.

Popular Areas in Budapest

There are many places to explore in Budapest. The city is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Danube Panorama and Castle district is the most beautiful and romantic parts of Budapest with countless historical monuments; Andrássy Avenue and Heroes Square are home to the most impressive buildings such as the State Opera House; The banks of the Danube river is a great place to see many of Budapest’s best sights.

The Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the largest building in Hungary, was designed in the Gothic Revival style. The building gives an enchanting view from every angle, especially from the other side of Danube when tourists can see the whole building. Tourists can also go to Castle Hill, one of the most visited places in Budapest with beautiful buildings that date back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

To escape the city, visit City Park where you will find a zoo, a replica of Transylvanian Vajdahunyad Castle, and the Széchenyi Bath. For visitors who wish to shop, try Ecseri Flea Marker, a fantastic flea market to find a bargain.

Weather and Climate in Budapest

Budapest has four distinct seasons.

• Summer in Budapest tends to be nice and warm with an average temperature ranging between 23 to 28 °C (73 – 82 °F). Summer lasts from May until mid-September. Heavy showers usually occur in May and June. Many tourists choose the summer to visit the city.
• The autumn in Budapest has moderate temperature with little rains and long sunny days, autumn starts from mid-September to late October.
• Winter can be really cold with only a little sunshine; the average temperature is 3 to -7 °C (27 to 19 °F). Winter lasts from November to March.
• Spring in Budapest is said to be one of the most beautiful times in the city when the green spaces are in full bloom. Spring starts from March to April and sees a rapid increase in the temperature.

Getting Around in Budapest

Ferenc Liszt International Airport (commonly referred to as “Ferihegy”) is the main airport in Budapest and in Hungary. The airport connects Budapest with many cities around the globe, mainly Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and North America. There are several budget airlines that operate flights in this airport such as Wizz Air, EasyJet, and Ryanair.

To get to the city center, tourists can take a taxi or a bus. Taxis are relatively cheap, always make sure to use regulated taxis to ensure your safety. The fare for taxis is 300 HUF/Km (1.03 USD). A ride to Budapest from Ferenc Liszt International Airport usually cost around 7200 HUF (24.8 USD).

The bus is the cheapest option to get to the city center. Budapest’s airport shuttle bus (100E) connects Ferenc Liszt Airport with the city center (Deák Ferenc Square). The trip takes about half an hour. Purchase a ticket at the airport post office, BKK customer points in arrivals halls, the newsagents, and from the ticket machine at the bus stops. Bus drivers also sell tickets for 450 HUF (1.60 USD). It is better and simpler to purchase daily or multi-day passes which are valid for an unlimited number of trips within their validity periods. The multi-day pass costs 1650 HUF (6.15 USD).

The best way to explore Budapest is by walking because most tourist sites are within walking distance. An alternative to walking is cycling. Budapest offers a bicycle sharing system called BuBi. Metro, trams, trolleybuses, buses, and the HÉV suburban train line are also available to get around Budapest.

Tourist Visas in Budapest

Citizens of the European Union, the United States, and Canada can enter and stay in Hungary without a visa for up to 90 days. Citizens of EU/EEA members and 33 countries are granted visa-free entry for a maximum period of 90 days. The only condition is to have a passport valid for at least three months. Other foreign citizens need to apply and obtain a visa before entering the country.

As a part of the Schengen Agreement, holders of the Schengen Visa do not need to apply for a new visa. The Schengen Visa is only issued to citizens of countries who are required to obtain a visa before entering Europe.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: The official currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF).  1 USD is equivalent to 290 HUF.
2. Money & Payments: Tourists can withdraw money from ATMs. Credit cards (mainly Visa, MasterCard, and American Express) are accepted in restaurants, hotels, and even most taxis. There are several hotels and guesthouses that will accept euros. Tipping is always appreciated but not necessary.
3. Local Language: The official language is Hungarian and is spoken by most of the population. Most people, especially in tourist areas, will know sufficient English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Budapest is home to one of the most populous Christian communities in Central Europe. Judaism is also a significant religion.
5. Public Holidays: Budapest celebrates Christian holy days as in the rest of Hungary. The city hosts many festivals around the year such as Budapest Spring Festival, Budapest Easter Festival, Music Festival in Spring, as well as Food and Frink Festivals. The date for these festivals may differ from year to year.