Potential Negative Health Impacts of Having an MRI


The MRI has become a critical part of medical diagnostics, allowing physicians to detect abnormalities in soft tissues, much like x-rays have permitted the viewing of bones. Although it has been an invaluable tool for diagnosis of medical problems, the process involves a number of risks that patients should know. Here are a few issues you should discuss with your physician before getting an MRI.

Magnets

The MRI machine works by generating a strong magnetic field around the subject, while powerful radio waves are directed at the body. The information is then sent to a computer, which translates the data into an image that can be used to detect abnormalities in the soft tissue. Some people may be advised to avoid getting an MRI. Devices like pacemakers, aneurysm clips, gastrointestinal clips or dental implants can be affected by the strong pull of the magnets. Even individuals who work with metal, who may have tiny metal splinters in the eyes, are warned against having an MRI. If you have received a medical device that might contain metals that might present a problem during an MRI, you should ensure that your physician, as well as the technician, is aware of the issue. They will be able to provide more information about the safety of the material in regard to the MRI.

Claustrophobia

Patients with a fear of being in tightly enclosed places, a condition called “claustrophobia” often have some difficulty having an MRI. The machine itself is like a hollow, narrow tube that the individual is slid into, which can provoke feelings of panic and breathlessness. In many cases, the technicians administering the MRI can talk the individual through the experience, explaining how it works and what the machine is doing. However, for some individuals, this explanation will prove inadequate, and a tranquilizer must be provided to allow them to finish the diagnostic test. Some facilities offer an “open” MRI that is less confining, but these machines are not always available.

Dye Reactions

The administering of an MRI test often requires dye compounds that enhance the images and allow radiologists to see tissue more clearly, to provide better analysis and diagnosis. Recently, a dye commonly used for an MRI to create better images has been linked to negative health effects. The dye contains a metallic compound called gadolinium, which appears to be retained in tissues of the body for long periods of time. A gadolinium lawsuit involving a patient who received the dye during an MRI, and then later developed pain, weakness and impairment of cognitive function has been filed in recent years. Concerns about the dye have cause the U.S. Food & Drug Administration to call for increased warnings about the compound’s tendency to remain in skin, bone and brain tissue.

The MRI is an important tool in allowing physicians to see the condition of tissues inside a patient’s body without having to do invasive, exploratory surgery. It has facilitated treatment of a wide range of medical problems and reduced stress to patients. However, an MRI still poses a number of hazards that should be carefully considered before agreeing to undergo the imaging. Your physician can provide additional information about MRI tests to ensure your safety.

 

Comments

Potential Negative Health Impacts of Having an MRI — 29 Comments

  1. When I originally commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox and now each time
    a comment is added I get four e-mails with the same
    comment. Is there any way you can remove people
    from that service? Many thanks!

  2. Wow that was strange. I just wrote an incredibly long comment but after I clicked submit my comment didn’t appear.

    Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again. Anyway,
    just wanted to say superb blog!

  3. Hi there, the whole thing is going well here and ofcourse every one is sharing data,
    that’s truly good, keep up writing.

  4. I think this is among the most vital info for me. And i’m glad reading your article.
    But wanna remark on some general things, The website style is wonderful, the articles is really excellent
    : D. Good job, cheers

  5. When I originally commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox and now each time
    a comment is added I get four e-mails with the same comment.
    Is there any way you can remove people from that service?

    Many thanks!

  6. I am not sure where you are getting your information, but great topic.
    I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more.
    Thanks for wonderful info I was looking for this
    info for my mission.

  7. Howdy! I could have sworn I’ve been to this site before but after reading through some of the post I realized it’s new to
    me. Nonetheless, I’m definitely glad I found it and I’ll be book-marking and checking back often!

  8. (iii) You account to your work, so keep a professional attitude while confronting your customers.
    Understand the niche – While writing the
    essay, first thing you have to do is to define the
    niche. To ensure that these individuals will comprehend the
    message you’re trying to find across, write utilizing their
    language and write while considering their amount of comprehension.

  9. (iii) You account to your work, so maintain a professional attitude when confronted with
    your customers. It is common for teachers to lament that students are can not write despite having
    done quite nicely inside the PMR English exam for 15-year-olds.
    To ensure that they will will view the message that you are hoping to get across, write utilizing their language and
    write while considering their amount of comprehension.

  10. Many people simply opt for the system that’s already positioned in the apartment or home.
    The drawer’s are of fine size, there are extra cases for cups, as well as the design too is great.
    The industrial dishwasher range supplied by Stero comes in nine the latest models of sufficient
    reason for many different configurations and accessories.

  11. If this is the situation then results might be skewed or
    even the writer might be can not draw any sensible conclusions.
    Understand the topic – While writing the essay, the first thing you should do
    is always to define the subject. Reading and writing
    wherever possible is definitely the best method to develop a writing style.

  12. When someone writes an piece of writing he/she maintains the plan of a user in his/her mind that
    how a user can be aware of it. Therefore that’s why this post is great.
    Thanks!

  13. That is really fascinating, You are a very professional blogger.

    I’ve joined your feed and sit up for seeking more of your excellent post.

    Additionally, I’ve shared your web site in my social networks

  14. Its such as you learn my mind! You seem to know so much about this, like you wrote the book in it or something.
    I feel that you could do with a few p.c. to drive the message
    house a bit, but other than that, that is magnificent blog.

    A fantastic read. I will definitely be back.

  15. I really like what you guys tend to be up too. This kind
    of clever work and reporting! Keep up the excellent works guys I’ve
    included you guys to our blogroll.

  16. Since the admin of this web page is working, no hesitation very
    shortly it will be famous, due to its quality contents.

  17. I am sure this piece of writing has touched all the internet viewers, its
    really really fastidious post on building up new website.