As per the research, every year 10millions of patients undergo MRI scanning procedures for various purposes. Even though an MRI scanner or MRI scan procedure has nothing to fear, but still there is no doubt, everyone feels nervous when the doctor orders an MRI scan. Because the procedure of MRI Head is highly safe and painless but still if you or your close one going for the MRI procedure for the first time, then getting worried is natural. You may have various questions and concerns in your mind about the MRI Scan.
In order to calm your worries and give detailed answers to all your question that is coming into your mind and you are looking for, we are writing this article. In this article, we will provide you with detailed information about everything you need to know about the brain MRI scan so that you can get the benefits from it and prepare well before undergoing the scan. Hope this information will help you in getting rid of the stress.
Key Points To Be Discussed
- About Brain MRI
- Why would I need an MRI Head?
- How to prepare for MRI Head?
- What is to expect during an MRI brain?
- What happens after the Head MRI?
- How long does MRI Brain Take?
- What is the cost of a Head MRI?
About MRI Brain
The Brain MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a painless and advanced imaging procedure that produces detailed images of the head and its surrounding tissues. In order to diagnose and detect diseases or injuries, this imaging procedure is highly effective and recommended. This imaging procedure doesn’t use any radiation but a magnetic field and radio waves to produce the picture. The pictures obtained with this imaging procedure help your doctor in making the diagnosis and choosing the best treatment for your condition.
Why Would I Need An MRI Head?
MRI(Magnetic resonance imaging) Head helps your doctor in making an early diagnosis of a wide range of health conditions such as:
- Infections
- Stroke
- Brain tumors
- Multiple sclerosis
- Brain hemorrhage
- Bleeding in the brain
- Eyes disorders
- Inner ear disorders
- Pituitary gland disorders
- Blood clots
- Bulging of blood vessels in the brain
- Spinal cord injuries
- Cysts
- The build-up of fluid in the brain
- Birth Defects
Apart from the mentioned above conditions, it is also recommended if you have symptoms such as:
- Swelling
- Inflammation
- Vision problems
- Dizziness
- Seizures
- Chronic headaches
- Change in behavior
- Hearing loss
- Difficulties in speaking etc.
How To Prepare For MRI Head?
For MRI Head, you need not prepare that much. Some general instructions you need to follow. If the doctor orders for MRI Head with contrast, in that case, you need to do a fast for 4 to 6 hours and the doctor may ask you for modification in the medication schedule.
But still here are some points that you need to follow such as:
- Wear a hospital gown before the scanning procedure.
- Remove the jewelry and metallic items from your body such as removable dental work, hair accessories, piercing, hearing aids, earrings, bangles, necklaces, bracelets, etc.
- Keep the spectacles, pens, and mobile phones out of the scanning room.
- Inform the diagnostic staff before the procedure about the various conditions you have: Allergy, Claustrophobia, Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, Kidney Disease, etc.
- Inform the doctor and technologist if you have metallic implants inside your body such as artificial joints, brain clips, pacemakers, inner ear implants, etc.
- If you have tattoo work over your body, don’t forget to tell the doctor and technologist about the same.
What Is To Expect During An MRI Brain?
MRI technologist takes you to the scanning room and asks you to lie down on the table that slides into the scanner during the scanning process.
- To keep your head in the right position, the technologist may give you a pillow.
- If your doctor ordered the contrast scan, then through an IV line, the technologist may give you contrast dye.
- The technologist may give you headphones to use because once the scanning procedure starts, you may hear a loud noise and thumping sounds.
- During the scanning procedure, you may order to stay still and the technologist may ask you to hold your breath.
- Once the required pictures get captured, Technologist may slide the table out of the scanner and remove the IV line if used.
What Happens After The Head MRI?
Usually, no care is required after the MRI brain but in the case of contrast media, you may experience allergy reactions. Your doctor guides you for the medication if required. Apart from this, in the case of contrast dye involvement, the technologist may guide you to drink a lot of water to remove the contrast dye from your body.
How Long Does MRI Brain Take?
It typically takes 15 minutes to 45 minutes. But in the case of contrast dye involvement, it may take longer about 60mins to 90mins.
What Is The Cost Of A Head MRI?
The average cost of a Head MRI is Rs. 6000. But not all diagnostic centers charge the same for a Brain MRI, so we can say that it can be more or less than the average cost. Some diagnostic center offers discounts as well as other benefits. So, you can confirm the exact price of an MRI Head at any MRI center in Delhi.
Conclusion
MRI Head Scan is the best imaging methodology to diagnose the problems inside the brain that affects the functioning of the brain. This diagnostic methodology uses a strong magnet and radio waves to diagnose the problem in an effective manner. This not helps the doctor in the diagnosis of the problem but also helps in the treatment planning.
Knowing in detail about the MRI scan for the brain helps you in remaining calm and reduce your anxiety about the scanning procedure.
