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Everything You Need to Know About an MRI

When Do You Need an MRI?

In some cases, a doctor may order a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test if they need a detailed image of what’s going on in the patient’s body. MRI scans can be very useful and are always thorough, which in some cases is necessary to make a proper diagnosis.

An MRI is a very valuable diagnostic tool that is used in modern medicine, and while there are a lot of reasons why a doctor may order this scan, it’s not required for every medical condition.

Your doctor will know when exactly magnetic resonance imaging is necessary as there are a variety of conditions that could require it. But nonetheless, it’s important to know when you might need an MRI and what symptoms you should tell your doctor about.

The biggest indication a patient needs an MRI is when they experience pain that is persistent and unexplained. This machine is used to diagnose conditions such as joint abnormalities, herniated discs, brain aneurysms, torn ligaments, and many others.

It’s also important to note that an MRI machine is not something that is specialized in only one area. There are different types of magnetic resonance imaging machines including those for bone and spinal cord imaging, body imaging, an MRI for breast cancer detection, and cardiac MRIs just to name a few.

There is a wide range of issues that can be diagnosed or tracked with the use of magnetic resonance imaging, so some patients don’t even know when they need a scan. However, if you mention certain symptoms to your doctor, they may order one.

mri

How to Prepare for an MRI?

If your doctor decides to schedule an MRI, there will be some things you should do to prepare for it.

Talk to your doctor about your medical history

Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any health conditions and allergies you have, and if you have an implanted device such as a pacemaker or cochlear implants.

This is extremely important because certain unique circumstances require some additional precautions.

Be clear about dietary restrictions

Certain types of MRIs require dietary restrictions and your doctor will inform you about what you can or can’t eat and drink before your scan. Typically, patients who need an abdominal MRI should avoid eating and drinking for at least a few hours before the test.

Make sure to ask your doctor a couple of days in advance about what dietary restrictions you need to follow, if any.

Remove all metal objects from your body

As the name suggests, a magnetic resonance imaging machine has a strong magnetic field, which is why patients aren’t allowed to have any metal objects with them while the scan is being performed.

Some objects that may include metal and should be removed include:

  • Jewelry
  • Watches
  • Piercings
  • Dentures
  • Hearing aids

When removing things made of metal, don’t forget about clothing. Anything that contains metal buttons, zippers, belts, underwires, fasteners or buckles must be removed before entering the machine.

Additionally, make sure you don’t put on deodorant beforehand as most deodorants contain aluminum. The same goes for perfumes, body lotions, hair sprays and gels.

Discuss claustrophobia with your doctor

One of the biggest issues people face during an MRI scan is dealing with claustrophobia. As the machine itself is rather confining, some people can feel claustrophobic and start panicking.

If you believe this could happen to you, talk to your medical professional about the different tips and tricks you can use to stay calm and not feel constrained. In some cases, the doctor will allow a loved one to stay in the room with you.

Where to get an MRI in Israel?

Getting a magnetic resonance imaging scan can be done almost anywhere in the world, but if you want to receive the best possible diagnosis, treatment and care, Sheba Medical Center should always be your first choice.

Health is something you should never compromise on and it’s important to choose a place where you can receive the best care – and that’s Sheba.

Request a consultation

Sheba Medical Center provides innovative, personalized medical care to patients from around the world. We are the largest, most comprehensive hospital in the Middle East and dedicated to providing advanced and compassionate medicine for everyone.

We welcome all cases, including the rarest and the most challenging. Our medical teams collaborate to provide the best possible health outcomes. From your initial inquiry through the long-term follow-up care, we are here for you.

Request a consultation and a Sheba Case Manager will contact you shortly:

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