MRI Side Effects

MRI meaning magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a machine that scans the internal structure of the body to detect any abnormalities. An MRI is a sophisticated machine that combines the power of computer and a magnetic field to give sharp and clear images, thus providing an in-depth analysis of any internal organ. Many people fear that the magnetic field may produce damaging effects on the body. However, to be honest the magnetic field is not powerful enough to harm internal organs. So MRI side effects (if any) are usually not worrisome.

MRI Scan with Contrast

This procedure uses a contrast (dye) in order to get a more clear view of the affected part of the body. Contrast agents not only improve the quality of the image but also help to detect the presence of small tumors or a damaged blood vessel, that do not appear in MRI scan if the procedure is done without a contrast. Once the contrast is injected, small tumors and other defects can be easily seen on the MRI scan images. MRI cost is dependent on numerous factors but reports suggests that the procedure is much more expensive as compared to United States.

Side Effects

Does undergoing MRI scan produce side effects? Well, quite a few; Experiencing fatigue after completion of MRI test is common. Rarely, the side effects cause any serious damage to the body. In most cases, these unwanted effects last for a short while and do not require any kind of medical treatment.

Headache
Patients often complain about headache after the procedure is complete. During this procedure, the MRI machine does make a lot of noise. This may not go too well with the patient and give rise to headache.

Nauseating Feeling
Patients who have undergone 'MRI with contrast' procedure may suffer from nausea. However, the nauseating feeling will vanish soon and as such it is not a cause for worry.

Dizziness
Dizziness or lightheadedness can also occur after the contrast medium is administered. One may experience this feeling of vertigo immediately or hours after the procedure is over.

Sweating
People who have been advised to undergo MRI scan have to first lie on a table. The table attached with the wheels, is then pushed exactly at the center of the MRI unit. The MRI machine is a small cylindrical shaped tube that accommodates only one person at a time. An MRI test may last anywhere between 45 minutes and 2 hours. So lying there even for half an hour, without any movement, is likely to cause excessive sweating.

Breathing Problems
In rare cases, patients find it difficult to breathe after MRI scan procedure that involves the introduction of contrast medium into the veins. This is a serious issue and indicates the body's intolerance towards the contrast medium.

Flushing
In some cases, flushing is the body's response to the contrast that is injected intravenously. This is one of the minor MRI risks in which the redness is confined to a specific area. Few patients have suffered from swelling on the face and hands.

Hives
An allergic reaction from the contrast medium in the form of hives, may also develop. Hives is a skin problem that causes development of small itchy red bumps. This type of skin rash due to contrast medium is localized and is seen in the area where the contrast is administered intravenously.

Blood Clots
Along with minor skin rash, development of blood clots is one of the uncommon MRI side effects. In this case, the MRI contrast may irritate the blood vessels, which may lead to the formation of blood clots.

Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
Exposure to gadolinium can trigger a harmful reaction and cause nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). This is rare side effect and occurs only in people having kidney problems. When the kidneys are not working properly, administering gadolinium can cause an adverse reaction in the form of nephrogenic systematic fibrosis. In this condition, the skin texture changes and the uppermost layer (epidermis) turns hard and thick, showing fibrosis. Eyes, joints and other internal organs are also affected by fibrosis.

Usually, it is observed that side effects after undergoing MRI do not need any trip to a doctor. However MRI dangers like nephrogenic systematic fibrosis will certainly require immediate medical assistance. To be on the safer side, before an MRI test, one should talk to a doctor and make him aware of health issues like kidney disease, if any.