Magnetic Resonance Imaging or better known as MRI is a test that uses powerful radio waves, magnets and a computer to diagnose the inside of your body. Your doctor can prescribe an MRI scan to see how well your body responds to a particular treatment. Unlike X-rays and Computer Tomography (CT scans), MRI's don't use harmful radiations. 

If you have been prescribed an MRI test and don't know how it works, you are in the right place. In this blog post, the Gold Coast radiology clinic will explain everything about MRI's in the shortest and simplest way possible. So keep reading to learn more about MRI scans. 

How Doctors Use MRI?

A doctor will prescribe an MRI test to observe the inner functions of your body. Your doctor might want to know how well your body is responding to a particular medicine or treatment. MRI's can be done on different parts of your body, but they are mostly used to examine the soft tissue and nervous system. 

An MRI can be prescribed for your brain and spinal cord, revealing the following things. 

  • Damage to any blood vessel
  • Cancer
  • Brain damage 
  • Multiple sclerosis 
  • Eye problem 
  • Stroke 

And many other underlying issues. An MRI is the most efficient and useful tool for examining internal injuries. Without an MRI scan, your doctor can't diagnose the problem. Hence, prescribing medicines and treatment without an MRI can be dangerous. 

What are The Risks of an MRI?

Like most medical procedures, there is always a slight risk. However, MRI's aren't risky for everyone. They might be harmful to pregnant women during their first trimester. However, if it's absolutely necessary, your doctor will prescribe an MRI scan. Certain people with metal inside their bodies can't get an MRI scan. These people include, 

  • People with metal clips used to treat brain aneurysms
  • People with Cardiac defibrillators and Pacemaker 
  • People with Cochlear implants

What Can you Expect During an MRI Scan 

An MRI machine is a long narrow tube with open ends. You lay down on a sliding table placed inside the tube. The sliding table goes inside the tube, and a technologist monitors the whole process from another room. 

You might hear thumping noises because the machine is moving to create a magnetic field. In most cases, you will be given earplugs to reduce the sound. Sometimes, music is playing in the background to keep the patient calm. As you slide inside the tube, a magnetic wave surrounds your body. The magnetic wave is invisible and isn't harmful. 

You'll be asked to perform small gestures like tapping your thumb against your finger, rubbing a block of sandpaper or answering simple questions.  

In some cases, you'll be injected with a contrast material called gadolinium. This material enhances the results of an MRI allowing doctors to find the underlying problem for your discomfort. During the MRI scan, you won't feel pain, nor there be any visible moving parts. 

The entire process can take up to 15 minutes. You'll be done before you know it. Sometimes, patients with claustrophobia are sedated. However, if you are fine, you can resume your usual activities immediately after the test. 

Results 

A doctor (radiologist) trained to interpret MRI scans will analyze the internal snaps of your body and report the finding to your doctor. The doctor will discuss the finding and next steps with you. 

How to Prepare for an MRI? 

Getting an MRI is intimidating, especially if you are new to the procedure. However, once you are prescribed an MRI scan, preparing for it is easy. Here is how to prepare for an MRI scan.

Remove All Metallic Objects 

All removable metallic objects must be removed from the patient's body and the guest. These objects include keys, cell phone, belt and even a metallic underwire bra. You should also take out your credit card and leave it with a responsible family member outside. Inside the MRI machine is a large magnet that can easily corrupt information on your credit card. 

Dress in Loose Clothes 

Loose clothes will help you lay down on the MRI table without any problem. You must also remove body piercing jewellery and anything that has metal in it. Hence, you can't wear your favourite jeans when you get an MRI scan. Therefore, wearing loose clothes will keep you comfortable and relaxed. 

Ending Note 

MRI scans can be intimidating at first, but you won't be afraid once you know the procedure. Some patients are claustrophobic; therefore, they are sedated before the procedure. MRI is a painless process without any moving parts that might scare you. Just relax and walk in with confidence.