Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Head

Before your MRI test, tell your doctor and the MRI technologist if you:

• Are allergic to any medicines. The contrast material used for MRI does not have iodine. If you know that you are allergic to the contrast material used for the MRI, tell your doctor before having another test.
• Have any other health conditions, such as kidney problems or Reference sickle cell disease Opens New Window, that may prevent you from having an MRI using contrast material.
• Are or might be pregnant.
• Have any metal implanted in your body. This helps your doctor know if the test is safe for you. Tell your doctor if you have:
  • o Heart and blood vessel devices such as a coronary artery stent, Reference pacemaker Opens New Window, Reference ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) Opens New Window, or metal heart valve.
  • o Metal pins, clips, or metal parts in your body, including artificial limbs and dental work or braces.
  • o Any other implanted medical device, such as a medicine infusion pump or a cochlear implant.
  • o Cosmetic metal implants, such as in your ears, or tattooed eyeliner.
• Have an Reference intrauterine device (IUD) Opens New Window in place. An IUD may prevent you from having the MRI test done.
• Become very nervous in small, tight spaces. You need to lie very still inside the MRI magnet. You may need medicine to help you relax.
• Wear any medicine patches. The MRI may cause a burn at the patch site.

You may need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the test if you are given a medicine (Reference sedative Opens New Window) to help you relax.

You will need to sign a consent form that says you understand the risks of an MRI and agree to have the test done. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results will mean. To help you understand the importance of this test, fill out the medical test information form (What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?).

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.