Today’s Journey: A vascular scan with sensory sensitivity in mind

This scan is an important step—but for someone like me, who is autistic and experiences heightened sensitivity to light and touch, it’s not just a medical procedure. It’s a sensory experience that requires careful planning and support.

🧠 What Is a Vascular Scan?

A vascular scan is a non-invasive ultrasound that helps visualize the arteries and veins. It’s used to determine the best location for a new AV fistula—a surgical connection between an artery and a vein that allows for efficient dialysis.

Here’s what typically happens:

A technician applies a gel to the skin of both arms.
A transducer (ultrasound wand) is moved over the skin to capture images.
The scan takes around 30–60 minutes, depending on the complexity.

🌈 Sensory Challenges and How I’m Preparing

🔆 Light Sensitivity

Medical rooms often have bright fluorescent lighting, which can be overwhelming.

I’ll be bringing tinted glasses and asking if the lights can be dimmed.

🤲 Touch Sensitivity

The gel used in the scan can feel cold and slimy, and the pressure from the transducer may be uncomfortable.

I’ll request that the gel be warmed and ask the technician to explain each step before touching my skin.

🗣️ Communication and Comfort

Clear communication helps reduce anxiety. I’ve found that bringing a sensory profile or simply explaining my needs upfront makes a big difference.

I’ll also bring noise-canceling headphones and a comfort item to help regulate sensory input.

🧘 My Mindset Today

I’m trying to approach today with calm and clarity, even though it’s not easy. Medical procedures can feel invasive, especially when your body has already been through so much. But I also know this scan is a step toward better dialysis access, and that’s worth showing up for.

❤️ A Message to Healthcare Providers

If you’re working with autistic patients, please know that sensory sensitivity isn’t a preference—it’s a neurological reality. Small accommodations like dimmed lights, warm gel, and clear communication can transform a stressful experience into a manageable one.

Final Thoughts

Today’s scan is about more than finding a vein—it’s about finding a path forward. I’m hopeful that the results will bring me closer to a new AV fistula and a more stable dialysis routine. And I’m grateful for every bit of support that helps make the process more humane.

If you’re preparing for a similar scan and have sensory sensitivities, don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. You deserve care that respects your body and your experience.

Today, I’m heading in for a vascular scan of both my arms. The goal is to find a suitable site to form a new arteriovenous (AV) fistula for dialysis access. My original fistula, located in my upper left arm, unfortunately failed about two years ago, and since then, finding a reliable long-term solution has been a challenge.