In Pinellas county, an MRI scan is not something anyone looks forward to. Many of us are terrified by hearing that our doctor has recommended that we get an MRI. In anticipation of the appointment our minds are instantly filled with dread. MRIs might cause you to experience a reaction like this if your doctor has recommended one. There's no need to be surprised at this response; you're not the only person who experiences this. Contrary to what you might be imagining, the process itself is far less frightening than the anticipation of this scan. Nothing more is required of you than to be still for a few moments during the process. If you need an MRI in Pinellas county contact 1-888-DOCS4PI. We'll match you with an expert from our medical staff that can conduct your MRI and put you at ease during the appointment.
We want to help you be as calm and confident as possible when going into your MRI. In this article we'll prepare you for what to expect. You'll learn what to expect before, during, and after an MRI, how to prepare, and what to avoid. Being prepared for this scan will give you the confidence you need to relax.
What Is an MRI?
The term MRI is most often referred to by its abbreviation, but its full name conveys a lot more information about the procedure. The abbreviation stands for magnetic resonance imaging. It consists of radio waves and powerful magnets that take a picture of what's inside your body. The image is then sent to a computer so doctors can examine it. The images provide crucial information about what might be happening in different areas of your body without requiring any invasive procedures.
In the event that you've been in a serious car accident, you may need an MRI scan. Injuries like concussions may be missed initially, but can be confirmed via an MRI scan. The information provided is pivotal when making critical diagnosis following severe injuries.
In addition, if you are receiving treatment for an illness or injury, your doctor may use an MRI to monitor your progress. An MRI is a more highly advanced method of examining your internal organs than X-rays or CT scans because ionizing radiation is not involved. As a result, MRIs are a safer and more sustainable method of diagnosing and treating serious injuries that are commonly caused by accidents. In the end, there is no pain, and though it can be nerve-racking for the patient, it is completely non-invasive.
What to Know Before Your MRI Scan in Pinellas
Has your doctor recommended an MRI scan for you following a car accident in Pinellas? If so, don't be alarmed or nervous. Focus your energy instead on preparing for the scan. Here are some things to keep in mind before your MRI.
Do Not Get Any New Piercings
Your body piercings or earrings should be removed before your MRI scan. A healed piercing won't be any problem, but if you have a new piercing that hasn't yet healed, it could begin to close up during the MRI process. If you are getting an MRI soon, avoid getting any new piercings in the weeks leading up to it.
Follow Your Doctor's Instructions
Be sure to follow your doctor's advice if he or she suggests avoiding certain foods or changing your diet before your MRI. The same goes if your doctor asks you to exercise more, take a new medication, stop an old one, or change your routine. By doing so, It will ensure that your MRI goes smoothly and that the results are accurate, which will help the doctors make the best possible treatment choices for you.
Resume Your Normal Schedule
It's essential to follow any instructions your doctor gives you regarding your MRI scan prep. If you are not given special instructions, however, try to maintain a normal schedule as much as you can leading up to your MRI scan. As usual, continue taking any usual medications and do not stop participating in your normal activities. Maintaining your regular lifestyle will contribute towards an accurate scan and will prevent misleading results that could potentially be caused by disruptions in your normal routine.
Preparing for an MRI in Pinellis County
A good technologist will consistently communicate with you, so you will never feel alone during your examination. You'll need to remove any metal objects you may have on you, such as jewelry. As the machine can sometimes be loud, the technologist may suggest earplugs or headphones. Procedures generally last 15-45 minutes. Although every person's experience will be unique, here are some general guidelines for getting an MRI scan:
Arrive Early
You'll want to arrive early on the day of your MRI scan. To ensure you have time to complete the proper forms, try to arrive at least half an hour before the scheduled time. While you wait for the doctor, bring a book, a magazine, or something to occupy your time. Staring at the clock will only make you tense.
What to Expect
You will change into a hospital gown once the technologist calls you in and you have completed any paperwork. Metal items should be removed, including rings and jewelry, but also glasses, hairpins, dentures, hearing aids, and bras with wires. Upon entering the room with the MRI machine, you will be escorted into a secure area where your belongings can be stored.
This machine is shaped like a long metal tube with a hole at the end. At the end of the tube, you will lie on a bed-shaped table. The table slides into the tube, where the scan occurs.
A contrast dye may be used in some cases to better highlight different parts of the body during the scan. If the dye is needed, it'll be given through your IV, usually in your arm.
It Will Be Noisy
MRI machines make a lot of noise. The experience isn't pleasant, but it's an unavoidable aspect. You'll hear loud thumping and pulsing noises as the scanner does its work as you lie in the machine. The noise isn't a problem for some people, but others are annoyed by it. You can ask your technologist if they can provide headphones or earplugs if you find the sounds unbearable.
Lie Still
It is your responsibility to lie still while the MRI scan is conducted. For each body part that requires scanning, you should expect a full scan to take 45 minutes to an hour. It will be possible for you to hear and talk to the technologist in the other room. Occasionally, they may ask you a few simple questions or ask you to perform a small movement. As much as possible, comply with their request with a minimal amount of movement.
If you have any distress or need to tell the doctor anything, please remember they can hear you. As you undergo the MRI, it's a good idea not to speak the entire time; however, it is advisable to express any concerns that arise. In any case, you should tell your doctor if you are experiencing pain or discomfort.
In an MRI, it is very important to remain as relaxed as possible. Try to keep your body relaxed. Think about something pleasant if you are able to. When you lay still, breathe deeply, and let your thoughts drift, the procedure will be over in no time.
What to Expect After the MRI scan
I'm sure you'll be glad your MRI is done once it's over. Now that the stressful part is done, you can relax. In addition to knowing what to expect when you go for an MRI scan in Pinellas, it's also good you know what to expect after. Thus, you won't be surprised by anything unexpected and will be prepared.
You shouldn't drive yourself home if you were given sedatives or medication. Your doctor may give these if you feel claustrophobic during the MRI scan. It may still be in effect or it may be beginning to wear off, but you won't be able to drive home safely either way. You may want to bring someone with you or ask someone to pick you up once the procedure is over. Even if the sedative wasn't planned or you forgot to arrange transportation beforehand, don't drive yourself home. Arrange to be picked up by someone.
The likelihood of a patient experiencing an allergic reaction to the contrast dye is rare, but it does happen occasionally. Be on the lookout for allergic reactions after your doctors used this dye for your MRI. Some of the symptoms include hives, rash, itchiness, or shortness of breath. Contact your doctor or the imaging center where you had your MRI if you experience any of these symptoms. In the event of a severe reaction, go to the emergency room immediately.
If your doctor has recommended an MRI in Pinellas county, reach out to 1-888-DOCS4PI personal injury services. We can match you with one of our highly qualified medical professionals that can guide you through the MRI process.
