anxiety about MRI

[Yeshuasdaughter]

I'm slightly anxious as I don't know what to expect. Are there any side effects with the Gadolinium contrast? Please don't be overly graphic or fearmongering. I'm kinda sensitive. But also don't hide stuff from me with a blanket "You'll be fine." I need to know the truth, just in a kind way. Please give me the facts if you know it.

Have you ever had a contrast MRI? Do you work in science or the medical field? I am diabetic and I have liver damage. I also have low blood pressure. Does this cause risks with the Gadolinium?

My MRI is this afternoon. I am nervous, but also confident. I just want to know what I will experience, and if there are side effects.

Thank you.

 

[Grondhammar]

Part of my work is with a large group of oncologists who run MRIs daily. I haven't had a contrast MRI myself, but having been in the orbit of that world for several years now, I can say that as long as your kidneys are functioning normally, the gadolinium will get filtered out and away in a day or so.

As always, though, you have to pay attention to what your body tells you after the MRIs. Regular breathing and heartbeat are the main ones to be aware of. Make sure you've got a good contact # in case your body's telling you something's not quite right.

And it really is going to be ok! Dye MRIs are a really useful tool. I hope the doctors are able to get some good insights, and give them to you.

 

[pek73]

I have had many MRIs with and without contrast. the only thing I noticed was a warm sensation in parts of my body. they said to drink lots of water to help flush the kidneys. I had no issues. It is loud so be prepared for that

 

[tree]

I had an MRI of my brain and there was some sort of
dye for contrast in the imaging. What I remember
most is how pleased the tech was at finding nothing
of concern in the images.

 

[Aspychata]

Sorry, l am clueless, but good luck. Yesterday, someone l know went in for quadruple bypass heart operation. That sounds intense. Put on your warrior shield and charge.

 

[Neonatal RRT]

I transport to/from the ICU and monitor patients during MRIs. A little late, but I found this source to be rather comprehensive on the topic. Gadolinium | What Is Gadolinium & What Is It Used for in MRIs?

 

[Masked Man]

I hope it went well, and I have not had one myself I have heard that the most concerning thing about MRIs is the feelings of being closed in. I have never heard anything negative about the contrast.

Was also under the impression that people could have a mild sedative if there was no reason not to. Again, I am not experienced in this as I've not had one done.

 

[Richelle-H]

I am someone who has had multiple MRIs of my brain and an equal number of my thoracic cavity and abdomen both with and without contrast. The techs will inform you, but as I recall, the contrast can sometimes make you feel a tiny bit warm for a few seconds or so, as it circulates through your blood, but I did not find it unpleasant and you may feel nothing at all (I did not feel that on a couple of occasions). They should give you ear plugs to deaden the noise.

All told I have experienced more than a dozen scans, equal numbers of both MRIs and CAT scans, and I received contrast on half of the CATs as well. None of them caused me any problems and I have never had a problem after the fact.

Just try to relax. Close your eyes and breathe in a controlled manor is my best advice.

My thoughts are with you.