An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is a common medical imaging test that healthcare providers use to diagnose health conditions. MRI scans provide detailed images of organs, tissues, bones and more using a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer. While MRIs are safe for most people, the experience of having one can cause anxiety and worry, especially if you don’t know what to expect. This article will provide quick answers to common questions about MRIs and offer advice on how to handle any worries you may have about your upcoming scan.
What is an MRI scan?
An MRI machine uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed, cross-sectional images of the inside of your body. It does not use radiation like X-rays or CT scans. During the scan, you will lie very still on a table that slides into a large tunnel-like machine. The magnetic field aligns water molecules in your body, and the radio waves cause those molecules to produce faint signals. Those signals are used to create black and white images of your internal structures. MRIs can scan all areas of the body and are often used to examine organs, tissues, bone and joints.
Are MRIs safe?
Yes, MRIs are very safe for most people when proper safety precautions are taken. The MRI machine does not emit radiation. The magnetic field and radio waves used during the scan have not been shown to cause any harm to human cells or DNA when used appropriately. However, the strong magnets in the machine can cause issues for people with embedded metal objects in their bodies. Things like pacemakers, insulin pumps, aneurysm clips, metal implants or shrapnel are generally contraindications for MRIs. Tell your doctor about any metal implants you have before scheduling a scan.
Will it hurt?
No, an MRI will not hurt. You may hear loud tapping or thumping noises during the scan as the machine switches magnet pulses on and off. Some machines provide headphones with music to block noise. The scanner opening is also somewhat tight and enclosed, which can provoke claustrophobia for some. Tell your provider if you are claustrophobic so they can offer medication to help you relax. Some centers also have more open MRI machines. Lying still for a long period can cause slight muscle cramping or stiffness after the test. Overall the scan itself is painless.
How long will it take?
MRI scan times vary depending on the part of the body being imaged. A scan of a joint or limb may take 15-30 minutes. Imaging of the abdomen or pelvis usually takes 30-45 minutes. Scans of the head or spine can take 45 minutes to over an hour. More detailed scans take longer. You will need to lie very still during the entire process, so expect to be in the MRI suite for 30 minutes to over an hour. If you are claustrophobic or antsy, ask your doctor about getting light sedation for the scan.
What if I have braces or implants?
You should not get an MRI if you have metal dental braces, a pacemaker, insulin pump or certain implants containing ferromagnetic metals. The strong magnets in the machine can interact with and dislodge these objects, which could cause serious injury. However, orthopedic implants made from materials like titanium, stainless steel and cobalt-chromium are usually fine for MRIs at 1.5 Teslas or less. still, always notify your provider about any implants. They may request X-rays to verify it is safe. If you have permanent cosmetics or tattoos, the technician should know as it may heat up slightly during the scan.
Can I eat and drink beforehand?
You will likely be asked to avoid food and drink for a few hours before the scan. This is so you do not feel nauseated while lying still inside the machine. You may be allowed sips of water to take medication. If your scan involves contrast dye (see below), you will be instructed to avoid food and liquids for several hours beforehand. This prepares your digestive system so the contrast can be absorbed properly. Follow all prep instructions from your healthcare team. Notify them if you have diabetes, as you may need special meal timing instructions.
Will I get contrast dye?
Some MRIs involve receiving an IV injection of a special contrast dye halfway through the scan. This dye highlights certain tissues, blood vessels or organs to make them stand out on the images. Contrast is commonly used for MRIs of the brain, spine, joints and abdomen. The dye contains the metal gadolinium and has a small risk of adverse effects in people with kidney disease. Tell your provider if you have kidney problems so they can assess if contrast is safe for you. The technician will insert an IV catheter into your arm at the start of the scan to deliver contrast if needed.
Preparing for Your MRI Scan
Proper preparation can help ease worries about an upcoming MRI scan. Here are some tips:
Ask questions
Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor exactly what the scan involves and how to prepare. Ask how long it will take, if you need contrast dye, whether sedation is an option and how you will get results. Understanding the process will reduce uncertainty.
Follow prep instructions
Carefully follow all pre-scan instructions from your healthcare team. This may include not eating for several hours beforehand, stopping certain medications, dressing comfortably and more. Prep is important for getting the best scan results.
Arrange transportation
You cannot drive yourself home after receiving sedation for an MRI. Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to your appointment and take you home after. Public transportation and taxis are not recommended.
Talk to your doctor about claustrophobia
If you are claustrophobic, anxious or prone to panic attacks, let your doctor know ahead of time. They can provide anti-anxiety medication or arrange for a short-acting sedative that will help you stay calm. Open MRI machines are also an option in some cases.
Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing
Wear clothes without zippers, snaps or metal. You may be given a hospital gown. Avoid wearing jewelry or watches which will need to be removed before the scan.
Use earplugs
The MRI machine can be very loud as it cycles through the scan. Earplugs and headphones are usually provided, but bring your own if you need. This helps muffle the disruptive noise.
Try relaxation techniques
Practice relaxation exercises like deep breathing, meditation or positive visualization to maintain calm. Listen to soothing music. Knowing how to self-soothe can make the scan experience less stressful.
Bring distractions
You will need to lie perfectly still for up to an hour, which can get tedious. Bring music to listen to, books on tape, relaxing playlists or podcasts. Technicians may even allow you to watch movies during the scan. Distractions help pass the time.
What to Expect During Your MRI
Knowing exactly what happens during an MRI scan takes away some of the uncertainty. Here is a step-by-step look at the process:
Registration and changing
You will first go to the check-in desk and provide your ID and insurance card before being escorted to a private changing room. Here you can use a locker to store your belongings and change into a hospital gown if needed.
Screening for safety
The MRI technician will make sure you don’t have anything unsafe that could be affected by the magnets, like implants, pacemakers or retained metal fragments. You will be asked questions about any implants or medical devices you have.
IV insertion
If your scan requires contrast dye, the technologist will start an IV catheter in your arm or hand and attach it to an IV line that will deliver the dye at the right time.
Positioning on scanner table
You will lie down on a padded table that slides into the MRI tube. Pillows and blankets help make you comfortable. The technologist will likely offer headphones.
Scan setup
The technologist will go to an adjacent room with computer monitors. They will use an intercom to communicate with you throughout the scan. They will slide the table with you on it into the center of the scanner.
Scan begins
When ready, the loud, pulsing noise of the scanner will begin. This is normal. You simply relax and lie still. During the scan, the table may vibrate slightly. Some facilities even play music quietly in the background.
Contrast injection
If you are receiving contrast dye for your scan, the IV line will deliver it about halfway through. You may feel a cool sensation as it flows through the vein.
Almost done
Scan times vary, but the technologist will inform you over the intercom when you have just a bit longer to go. Stay relaxed and don’t move.
Scan finishes
When the scan is complete, the noises and vibrations will stop. The table will slide out of the tube opening so you can exit the machine.
Remove IV
If you had contrast dye through an IV, the technologist will remove the catheter and IV line and place a bandage on your arm.
Get dressed
Return to the private changing room, retrieve your belongings from the locker and get dressed again in your own clothes. You are then free to leave.
Understanding Your MRI Results
Getting your MRI results explained thoroughly will help alleviate any lingering worries about what was found. Here is how to understand your scan results:
Radiologist interprets images
A radiologist specially trained to interpret MRIs will analyze the images from your scan and write up a report detailing their findings. This may take a few days to a week after your scan.
Make an appointment with your doctor
Your doctor will receive the radiology report and call you in to discuss the results. This visit is key to understanding what was seen on the MRI. Schedule it promptly after learning your results are ready.
Ask questions
During your follow-up appointment, ask your doctor to explain the MRI report clearly. Ask them to show you the images and point out any findings. Make sure you understand if the results are normal or abnormal.
Get clarification on next steps
Based on the MRI results, your doctor will recommend appropriate next steps. This could include additional imaging tests, referral to a specialist, surgery, physical therapy or more. Understand clearly what you need to do moving forward.
Get copies of the report and images
Ask your doctor for copies of the radiologist’s report as well as images from the scan. It is helpful to have these to refer to or share with other providers. Many facilities provide online patient portals where you can view reports and images.
Listen carefully and take notes
Have a notebook handy during your results appointment so you can write down key points. Listen carefully to everything the doctor says about the findings and treatment plan. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
When to Worry About MRI Results
In most cases, there is no need to worry about your MRI results. The images allow your doctor to make the best diagnosis and treatment plan for your condition. However, you should be concerned about the following scenarios:
The radiologist sees an abnormal growth or tumor
If the MRI detects a suspicious mass or tumor, additional imaging and biopsy are generally needed to test if it is cancerous. Tumors require prompt specialist referral and treatment.
A vascular problem like an aneurysm is found
Bulges in blood vessels called aneurysms can be life-threatening if they rupture and cause internal bleeding. Neurologists or vascular surgeons can recommend urgent surgical repair if an aneurysm is found.
There are signs of organ damage
MRIs can reveal damage, scarring or injury to organs like the liver, kidneys, spleen, pancreas or reproductive organs. Your doctor will explain the severity and recommend seeing appropriate specialists.
Results suggest a neurological issue
Unexplained abnormalities on a brain or spine MRI may indicate conditions like multiple sclerosis, dementia, nervous system infections, Parkinson’s disease or stroke. Ask for prompt referral to a neurologist.
Your doctor seems concerned
If your physician recommends urgent additional testing and referral after reviewing your scan results, this is a red flag. Make sure you clearly understand the severity so you can get proper follow-up care.
The findings don’t correlate with your symptoms
If an MRI shows no abnormalities that explain your ongoing symptoms, this can still be concerning. Ask your provider whether repeat imaging is needed and insist on a thorough workup.
When to Get a Second Opinion
It is reasonable to seek a second opinion in these instances:
Your doctor rushes to treat without explaining the results
A physician who seems quick to schedule surgery or aggressive treatment without taking time to review the MRI results fully may warrant a second opinion. Slow down and get another perspective.
Your doctor seems unsure of the diagnosis
If your physician hems and haws over the findings or seems uncertain how to proceed, consulting another specialist who can take a fresh look at the MRI may be wise. An unclear diagnosis merits another set of eyes.
There is a major discrepancy in findings
If your MRI results are inconsistent with previous imaging studies or clinical examinations, getting a second radiologist to analyze your scan is prudent. Conflicting findings require further investigation.
You are considering a serious treatment
Before agreeing to any major intervention like surgery, a cancer clinical trial, or extensive rehabilitation, seeking input from another specialist can give you added confidence. A second set of eyes can confirm your planned course of action or offer alternate options.
Your health is deteriorating despite treatment
If you are receiving treatment based on MRI findings yet continue to feel worse, do not hesitate to visit another doctor and share the images. Ongoing issues may require looking beyond the initial interpretation.
Your doctor dismissed your symptoms
If your MRI was reported as normal yet you have debilitating symptoms, do not allow a physician to brush you off without explaining clearly. Get a second opinion from a doctor who will take time to listen.
Conclusion
Undergoing an MRI scan is not something to take lightly, but understanding the process and your results can give you peace of mind. Listen closely as your doctor explains the findings and any recommended treatment or next steps. If you have concerns about your doctor’s interpretation of the MRI, seek input from a specialist you trust. Know that you always have the option to get a second opinion before proceeding. With the proper information and follow-up, most patients are able to put worries about abnormal MRI results to rest. Stay proactive in your healthcare and you can feel confident addressing any issues found during your scan.