Normally MRI scans do not pose a risk, but side effects may happen. The majority of risks are associated with the magnetic field and radio frequency energy as part of the exam. Side effects can also include loud noises heating to the body and in rare cases, movement or malfunction of implanted devices such as pacemakers. Some patients experience claustrophobia during the scan. Contrast dye can also lead to a mild allergic reaction like nausea, headache, or pain at the injection site.
Claustrophobia and Anxiety
One of the most oftentimes occurring side effects of an MRI scan is claustrophobia or anxiety. tube-like structure for an extended period of time. The narrowness of the MRI is uncomfortable, and for some patients it floods them with anxiety especially if they have a panic of being in a confined space.
Improvement Solution: If you have claustrophobia, let your physician know. There are solutions, including sedation or anti-anxiety medications and open MRI machines that are less restrictive. Listening to music or having someone there may help with anxiety.
What is Noise Discomfort
MRI devices make loud thumping and tapping sounds during scanning, which may disturb and unnerve some patients. The cause of this noise is the fast switching of magnetic fields and is a natural component of the MRI process.
Improvement Solution: If you have feelings of claustrophobia, you will want to tell your physician. There are options, including sedation or anti-anxiety medications, an open MRI machine, music, or being with someone may help alleviate your anxiety.
Contrast Material Allergic Reactions
Some MRI studies use contrast material called gadolinium to improve diagnostic detail of the images, in particular the brain MRIs or brain tumor MRI. Serious allergic reactions to gadolinium are very rare; only a few patients will experience mild reactions such as rash or nausea.
Improvement Solution: If you have allergies or have ever had an allergic reaction to the contrast material, you should inform your health care provider. An allergy test can be conducted prior to the scan, or they may opt for another imaging modality. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, nausea, or difficulty breathing.
Short Duration Discomfort or Pain
During an MRI scan, lying in one position may create brief discomfort or pain during the procedure. This type of discomfort is generally brief; we saw more complaints of discomfort or pain among patients with prior illness, e.g. history of arthritis, or chronic pain.
Improvement Solution: the technician may be able to provide some cushioning, or reposition you.
Headaches and Dizziness
Headaches and dizziness tend to be mild, with most resolving in a few hours.
Suggestion for reducing the symptoms: Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep should diminish these symptoms, but if headache or dizziness continues, you should have a conversation with your health care provider.
Conclusion
While many patients feel that MRI scans are safe and safe for patients, various side effects and limitations are associated with them and most are minor and tolerable. The more common problems include, but are not limited to,claustrophobia, anxiety from the confined MRI space, noise discomfort due to the loud scanning, and some mild physical discomfort, headaches, dizziness, or fatigue from having to remain still long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the risks of MRI scan?
Although MRI scans are typically very safe, there are risks, such as device malfunction or burns from metal objects because of the magnetic field.
Q. What does an MRI do to your body’s side effects?
MRI scans are quite safe, but you may experience some side effects, including discomfort from lying still, the machine’s loud sounds, and a sensation of warmth to the scanned area.
Q. Is MRI high risk?
No, an MRI is generally considered low risk for the average individual following acceptable safety procedures and protocols.
Q. Is MRI safer than CT scan?
Many believe MRI is safer than a CT scan and this is partly because MRI has no ionizing radiation. CT scans use x-rays to expose the patient to a small radiation dose while MRI scans use no radiation at all.
