MRI Safety Myths vs Facts:

MRI Safety Myths vs Facts: What Patients Really Need to Know

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a commonly employed medical investigation procedure. Through this procedure, we get a clear idea of what is happening inside our bodies. This procedure helps us investigate various internal organs, such as our brain, back, and joints, among others. However, despite the importance of MRI, various people fear it owing to various myths related to it. Let’s try to analyse the various myths related to MRI and get to know the truth behind them in simple language.

Myth 1: MRI uses harmful radiation
• Fact: It does not use any kind of harmful radiation. This is one of the biggest misconceptions. People think that it is just like getting an X-ray or a CT scan. But it is not. It uses strong magnets and radio waves. These do not do any kind of harm to your body. This is why it is considered a safe procedure for all individuals, including children.
Myth 2: MRI is painful
• Fact: It is completely painless. You lie on a table which slides into a big machine. The machine makes loud tapping and knocking noises, but they are not painful. Some people find it a bit uncomfortable having to stay in one position for a long time, but there is no pain involved.
Myth 3: MRI machines can pull metal from your body
• This is because they have strong magnets. However, they first ask questions to ensure you are perfectly safe. If you have implants like screws, plates, and pacemakers, they ensure you are perfectly safe before you undergo an MRI. Most of the implants used by the medical community are perfectly safe for use during an MRI. It is very important to ensure you have removed items like watches, jewellery, and belts before you undergo an MRI.
Myth 4: You will get stuck inside the MRI machine
• Some people are nervous because of the look of the MRI. The MRI is shaped like a tunnel. Because of this, you may feel like you are locked in. But do not worry. You are never alone. A technician is always looking at you. You may talk to him anytime you want using a microphone. You may press a button anytime you are uncomfortable. If you are too scared, do not worry. There is medicine that may be given to you to make you relax. But do not worry. There is a special kind of MRI called "open MRI machines."
Myth 5: MRI is dangerous for everyone
• Mostly, it is safe for humans, but it is not always safe for certain medical equipment in the body, such as older pacemakers and clips in the body. That is why they ask questions before they give an MRI. It is always important to inform your doctor if you have any medical conditions.
  Pregnant women can also have an MRI if they need it.
Myth 6: MRI scans take too long and are not worth it
• Fact:The time required for scanning by the MRI machine may take anywhere from 20 minutes to 60 minutes. Even though it is too long a time, it is worthwhile waiting since the images produced by the MRI are detailed. It helps treat the health condition at an early stage.
Myth 7: The loud noise means something is wrong
• Fact: The loud noises you hear during an MRI are normal. This occurs as the machine works hard to produce the images required. You may hear noises such as banging and clicking sounds. To make you feel comfortable during the process, you may be provided with earplugs or headphones. In some places, music may be played during the process.
Myth 8: You cannot move or breathe normally
• Fact: You must remain as still as possible in order for your photos to be clear. However, you can breathe as you want. Sometimes, they will ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds; they will remind you of this. Don’t worry!
Myth 9: MRI is only for serious diseases
• Fact: There are a number of reasons for the use of MRI, and it is not just for serious problems. Doctors use it to check for injuries, headaches, joint pain, and so forth. It is useful for early diagnosis, and problems can be treated before they become serious.
Myth 10: You need special preparation for an MRI
• Fact: Generally, no special preparation is necessary. You can continue your normal activities of eating and drinking unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. You may be asked to wear a special gown and remove any metal objects. That is all.

Final Thoughts

MRI is a safe procedure which does not cause any pain and is very useful for checking what’s going on inside the body. There are many myths and phobias regarding an MRI scan. None of them is correct. You need to know the facts regarding an MRI scan. This will make you comfortable. It is true that when you are told by your doctor to get an MRI scan done, it is only because they want to know more about you so that they can treat you better. Do not hesitate to ask any questions when you are confused. They are trying to make you comfortable.