Is it painful?
A magnetic resonance imaging scan is painless. The only discomfort you’ll need to worry about is that you have to you must lie down and keep still while the scans are being taken. In some cases, patients are injected with a special dye. Once in your bloodstream, this helps give your doctor a clearer picture of certain organs or tissues inside you.
Why do I need to lie still?
Any movement could jar the image and you’ll need to start all over again. For patients with intermittent muscle problems or involuntary twitching, this could present a small complication. So if you have a problem with confined spaces or suffer from claustrophobia, talk to your doctor to know how it can be done, Patient says. Some patients need to be sedated in order to undergo this medical procedure.
How long does it last?
The procedure can last anywhere from 15 to 40 minutes. So you can easily schedule one on your lunch break. However, in case you need to be sedated during the procedure to help you relax and keep still, make sure you get in touch with someone who can pick you up and drive you home.
I have a pacemaker. Is that a problem?
The MRI is basically a huge magnet. So it’s not safe for anyone with pacemakers or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator or ICD. Anyone with metal implants in the body cannot be a candidate for an MRI scan.
I’m pregnant. Can I take an MRI?
The exam isn’t typically done on pregnant women to keep both mother and baby safe. However, under certain conditions, if there’s a threat to the safety of the mother and unborn child, then an MRI might be used to determine what’s wrong.
Keep this information in mind. It’ll come in handy when you start looking for Orlando Imaging services for your own treatment and care.
