MRI Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful and widely used diagnostic tool in modern medicine. This non-invasive imaging technique uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body’s internal structures, allowing healthcare professionals to diagnose and monitor a wide range of conditions without ionizing radiation¹.

While MRI scans are generally considered safe and do not expose patients to harmful radiation, patients should be aware of potential risks and side effects.

Common Side Effects of MRI

While MRI scans are generally safe and well-tolerated, some patients may experience common side effects during or after the procedure.

Psychological Effects

Claustrophobia

Many patients experience feelings of claustrophobia or anxiety during an MRI scan². This is primarily due to:

• The confined space of the MRI machine.
• The need to remain still for an extended period.
• The loud noises produced by the scanner.

Some facilities offer open MRI machines or sedation options for patients with severe claustrophobia. 

Stress and Anxiety

Even without claustrophobia, some patients may feel stressed or anxious about the procedure or potential results.

Physical Discomfort

Lying Still

Remaining motionless for the duration of the scan (typically 15-90 minutes) can cause:

• Muscle stiffness.
• Numbness in limbs.
• General discomfort, especially for patients with chronic pain conditions.

Sensory Disturbances

During the scan, the MRI machine produces loud knocking or thumping noises, which can be startling or annoying and potentially cause temporary hearing issues if proper ear protection is not used³.

Dizziness or Vertigo

A small number (less than 3 percent) of patients report feeling dizzy or experiencing a sensation of movement during the scan⁴. 

Rare But Serious Side Effects

While MRI scans are generally safe, patients and healthcare providers should be aware of some rare but serious side effects. These side effects are typically associated with using contrast agents or specific patient conditions. 

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are used in MRI scans to enhance image quality. While most patients tolerate these agents well, allergic reactions can occur:

Mild to Moderate Reactions

• Nausea and vomiting⁵
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Itching or rash at the injection site
• Hives

These reactions typically occur in 0.004 percent to 0.7 percent of cases.

Severe Reactions

In extremely rare cases (0.001 percent to 0.01 percent of exposures), patients may experience severe allergic reactions, including⁶:

• Anaphylactic shock
• Respiratory distress
• Cardiac arrhythmias or arrest
• Circulatory collapse

Fatal reactions, while extremely rare, have been reported.

It should be noted that Ezra does not use contrast dyes during their MRI scans, reducing the risk of side effects.

Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF)

Patients with severe kidney dysfunction are at risk of developing NSF after exposure to gadolinium-based contrast agents⁷. This condition causes skin thickening, typically on the arms and legs, and potential internal organ involvement. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

Managing and Mitigating Side Effects

Managing and mitigating the side effects of MRI scans is important for patient comfort and safety. 

Before the MRI, inform the technician of any issues, including medical conditions, allergies, and implants, and mention any history of claustrophobia or anxiety⁸. You can also try to prepare mentally by learning about the MRI procedure to reduce anxiety. 

During the MRI, try to stay calm and relaxed by practicing deep breathing techniques, visualization or meditation, and closing your eyes⁹. If uncomfortable, use the call button and ask for breaks, especially during longer scans. Stay still to reduce the likelihood of undergoing the MRI again.

After the MRI, watch for any unusual symptoms, especially if any contrast agents were used. If you experience any discomfort or concerns, report them to a medical practitioner¹⁰. However, you can resume normal activities soon after the MRI.

FAQs

Is MRI safe for pregnant women?

While no adverse effects on fetuses have been conclusively demonstrated, caution is advised for pregnant women, especially in the first trimester⁵. If an MRI with contrast has been undergone and you are breastfeeding, you may want to pump extra milk and resume breastfeeding 24-48 hours after the dye injection¹¹. However, you can continue breastfeeding after a contrast MRI.

Can MRI cause long-term health problems?

Based on the current scientific evidence, MRI scans are considered generally safe and do not cause long-term health problems for most people. The use of gadolinium-based contrast agents has raised some concerns. While rare, there is a risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in patients with severe kidney dysfunction⁵. Additionally, there is evidence that small amounts of gadolinium may remain in the body after an MRI, though the clinical significance of this is not yet clear.

Summary: Side Effects of MRI

MRI scans are an invaluable tool in modern medicine, providing high-quality imaging without exposure to ionizing radiation. While generally safe and well-tolerated, some patients might experience mild side effects, such as discomfort from lying still or temporary anxiety, particularly in confined spaces. Loud noises during the scan may also cause minor sensory disturbances. Rare but more serious side effects can occur, especially when using gadolinium-based contrast agents. 

Overall, MRI remains a safe and effective diagnostic procedure. Patients are encouraged to communicate openly with their healthcare providers to address any worries, ensuring a smoother experience and maximizing the benefits of this advanced imaging technology.

Ready to be proactive with your health? Book an Ezra Full Body Plus scan, which includes MRI and CT, today to detect any issues early and put you on the road to long-term health. Our yearly scan screens for potential cancers early, using AI to enhance the process, making it more efficient and affordable.