Did you know that the first MRI scan was taken on July 3, 1977, by Dr. Raymond Damadian? We all have our first times with things, it can be anything and if it’s your first MRI scan, I think you’re in the right place.
What is an MRI scan? What does it do?
It is a medical imaging technique used in radiology to investigate anatomy and physiological processes in the body with radio waves and a large magnet. MRI is different from a CT scan or X ray as it does not use harmful radiation.
Purpose and Uses
Health care providers, researchers, scientists are now able to explore the process happening inside the body without using invasive methods. The list of purposes and uses of an MRI is expanding each day. Here is a list of examples that an MRI is used which involves disease detection, diagnosis and treatment monitoring:
- Tumor, cysts in different parts of the body
- Anomalies in the brain and spinal cord
- Injuries in the joints like back and knees
- Breast cancer screening
- Heart problems
- Evaluation of pelvic in woman
- Diseases in liver and other abdominal organs
- Evaluation of infertility in women
Preparation for an MRI
Only a few things should be prepared and informed in advance for a smooth and effective process which is mentioned below.
On arrival you’ll be told to change into a gown and remove all the jewelry and piercings as there is a giant magnet involved in the process which might cause some disturbance.
If there are metal objects inside your body like bullets, shrapnel, medical devices such as cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, and pacemakers then you will be unable to take an MRI.
Inform your doctor if you’re claustrophobic. You will be lying down in an enclosed tubelike structure for at least an hour and if you have experiences with claustrophobia your doctor will prescribe you medicines to calm you down.
Sometimes you will also be given an IV injection to improve visibility of a particular tissue relevant to the scan. The last point is lying still; this will help in getting better imaging and movements will disrupt the imaging. Also, there will be noises during the imaging which you don’t have to worry about.
What’s after?
After the MRI you might have some discomfort like nausea, headaches and pain or burning at the point of injection in some people.
Some even have allergic reactions due to the contrast material which might cause rashes, shortness of breath, hives and itchiness. Make sure you inform your doctor and get prescribed medicines then you’re good to go.
The MRI scan is seen as a huge milestone in the medical field, and it has been advancing since. The healthcare providers try their best in detection and in diagnosis, so you don’t have to worry they have got your back. Hope this was helpful, have a safe first MRI!
