{"id":10788,"date":"2024-11-12T09:49:03","date_gmt":"2024-11-12T14:49:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pockethealthqa.wpengine.com\/?p=10788"},"modified":"2025-10-20T09:14:07","modified_gmt":"2025-10-20T13:14:07","slug":"brain-mri","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pockethealth.com\/patient-resources\/brain-mri\/","title":{"rendered":"Brain MRI: How to Prepare and What to Expect"},"content":{"rendered":"

A brain MRI is a non-invasive procedure that enables doctors to closely examine various areas of the brain, providing a detailed view of the tissues and structures within. This imaging technique helps identify issues like tumors, infections, and signs of degenerative diseases. In this article, we\u2019ll walk you through the entire process\u2014from understanding how a brain MRI works to what you can expect during the procedure. We\u2019ll also guide you on how to prepare for your appointment, access your images and results, and offer tips to help you better understand these findings<\/a> with your doctor.<\/p>\n

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Get early access to your MRI results<\/h2>\n
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  • Online Access<\/li>\n
  • Easy Sharing<\/li>\n
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    What is an MRI of the brain?<\/h2>\n

    Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) helps doctors assess the health of organs, blood vessels, and tissues, monitor symptoms, and track treatment progress. A brain MRI captures detailed images from multiple angles to give doctors a thorough view of brain tissue.<\/p>\n

    MRI scans use a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency current to adjust proton rotations within tissues. A radiologist can then review the captured images for irregularities or disease.<\/p>\n

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    What is a brain MRI used for?<\/h2>\n

    A brain MRI scan evaluates the soft tissues of the brain and spinal cord, including the cerebrum, brain stem and cerebellum, for structural abnormalities or to help diagnose conditions such as:<\/p>\n

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    • Abscesses, hemorrhage or bleeding in the brain<\/li>\n
    • Aneurysms<\/li>\n
    • Congenital abnormalities<\/li>\n
    • Degenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis<\/li>\n
    • Inflammatory conditions like encephalomyelitis<\/li>\n
    • Brain tumors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

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      Brain MRI vs fMRI<\/h2>\n

      While both a brain MRI and an fMRI use similar magnetic and radiowave technology to capture detailed brain images, they serve distinct purposes. A brain MRI focuses on the structure of the brain, producing high-resolution images that help detect physical issues like tumors, bleeding, or structural abnormalities. In contrast, an fMRI highlights brain activity by measuring blood flow, which changes with neural activity. This makes fMRI useful for observing brain function, tracking activity levels in response to stimuli, or monitoring changes over time. Both scans are non-invasive and provide crucial insights but differ fundamentally in their focus: one on structure, the other on function.<\/p>\n

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      How is a brain MRI performed?<\/h2>\n

      Upon entering the MRI room, you will notice the long, cylindrical MRI machine, which features a table that slides in and out of its opening. You will be asked to lie down on the table, positioning your head and neck inside the machine.<\/p>\n

      If your procedure requires contrast fluid, you will receive it prior to the scan. Once you are comfortably positioned, the MRI will begin. Expect some noise during the procedure; however, it is important to remain still to ensure the clearest images are captured. You may request headphones with calming music to help muffle the machine’s sounds. Throughout the scan, the technologist will provide instructions and will be available to communicate with you via speakers inside the machine.<\/p>\n

      A typical brain MRI takes between 30 to 60 minutes to complete, although it may take a bit longer if you are receiving contrast fluid either orally or intravenously.<\/p>\n

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      How to prepare for a brain MRI<\/h2>\n

      Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help ease any pre-appointment anxiety. Below, we outline what to do before your MRI scan, what to expect during the procedure and how you\u2019ll feel after the scan.<\/p>\n

      Tips before the scan<\/h3>\n
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      • Consult your doctor if you experience claustrophobia:<\/strong> Some patients can feel a little claustrophobic in the enclosed MRI machine. If you know you\u2019re prone to this, consider asking your doctor for a possible prescription for relaxing medication to help you through the appointment. Note that you\u2019ll likely need to arrange a ride to and from your appointment if you take these medications.<\/li>\n
      • Let your doctor know in advance about any metallic implants:<\/strong> Examples include pacemakers or expander implants. Because of the magnetic nature of the MRI machine, they will want to know in advance so you can be properly accommodated.<\/li>\n
      • Inform your doctor in advance of any allergies:<\/strong> If you have known allergies to medications or other substances, it\u2019s helpful for the technician to be prepared.<\/li>\n
      • Inform your doctor if you have small or hard-to-find veins:<\/strong> If you\u2019re expecting contrast to be administered via IV but have a history of these vein conditions, the technician may need you to arrive early to accommodate.<\/li>\n
      • Consider bringing past brain imaging:<\/strong> Having copies of previous brain scans can be helpful to share with the radiologist for comparison.<\/li>\n
      • Inform your doctor of pre-existing conditions:<\/strong> Specifically, if you\u2019re pregnant, nursing or on hormone replacement therapy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Tips during the scan<\/h3>\n
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        • Communicate:<\/strong> Inform the technologist if you experience discomfort or anxiety.<\/li>\n
        • Prepare for muscle twitches:<\/strong> The MRI\u2019s activity may cause minor muscle twitches, which are harmless.<\/li>\n
        • Try to remain still:<\/strong> Moving a lot might not allow the technologist to capture all images quickly and might delay the process.<\/li>\n
        • Take regular breaths:<\/strong> Follow any breathing instructions, but breathe regularly otherwise.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

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          Getting my results<\/h2>\n

          You\u2019ll likely want to review your brain MRI results as soon as possible. Below is a guide on timing, who interprets them, and how to understand your results.<\/p>\n

          When will I get my results?<\/h3>\n

          Most patients receive their results within a week, although the exact timing can depend on the nature of the concern and the facility where the MRI takes place. Your doctor’s and radiologist’s schedules can also impact how quickly you get your results, as many patients wait until their follow-up doctor’s appointment to receive their results.<\/p>\n

          PocketHealth<\/a> provides faster access, allowing you to see your results as soon as they’re uploaded by the radiologist, giving you time to review findings and prepare questions. For added support, MyCare Navigator<\/a> generates questions to ask your doctor based on findings in your report and highlights any follow-up recommendations found in the report.<\/p>\n

          Who interprets my results?<\/h3>\n

          A radiologist specializing in brain MRI will assess your images and create a detailed report. This report then goes to your referring doctor, who will provide additional interpretations based on your medical history.<\/p>\n

          Understanding my results<\/h3>\n

          Viewing your brain MRI images and report before your follow-up can help you prepare for discussions with your doctor. Report Reader<\/a> can clarify complex medical terms in your report, helping you to have more informed conversations with your doctor.<\/p>\n

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          Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n

          How long are you in the MRI machine for a brain MRI?<\/h3>\n

          A brain MRI typically requires around 30 minutes inside the machine, though some complex scans can take an hour or more.<\/p>\n

          What are the risks associated with getting a brain MRI?<\/h3>\n

          MRIs are low-risk, using no ionizing radiation. However, patients with metal implants should inform their doctor, as the MRI\u2019s magnetic properties could cause complications. Side effects are rare, though some may experience an allergic reaction to contrast dye.<\/p>\n

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          Take control of your brain health journey<\/h2>\n

          A brain MRI provides a detailed view of your brain, helping your doctor assess your health, monitor symptoms, and track disease progression or treatment. Accessing your records early through PocketHealth<\/a> can reduce the stress that many patients face while waiting for results and help you prepare questions for your next appointment.<\/p>\n