It is a complex neurological condition that affects the central nervous system of millions around the world, and can have lasting effects on your physical, mental and emotional health. To understand the extent of the disease, it is essential to undergo an MRI scan.
An MRI scan uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain and spinal cord. The results provide clear indications of any lesions or damage associated with MS.
Although the process of an MRI scan is painless and non-invasive, the preparation involved can be time-consuming. You may have to refrain from eating or drinking for up to four hours before your appointment. Depending on where you go and what type of scanner is being used, you may need to wear a special neck collar or protective garment during the scan.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are commonly used by healthcare professionals when diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis (MS). On an MRI scan, MS activity can be identified as either bright or dark spots. These spots tend to be oval or framed in shape and can appear in both the brain's white and grey matter.
In order to improve image quality, a chemical contrast dye known as gadolinium may be injected into a person's vein prior to their MRI scan, and this helps to improve the brightness of the scan images.
During an MS MRI scan, you will lie on a table while a special machine scans your body with powerful magnets and radio waves. The machine will produce detailed images that allow your doctor to examine the structure of your brain or spinal cord for any abnormalities related to multiple sclerosis.
The MRI machine is able to identify the demyelinated parts of nerve cells. The presence of such lesions is indicative of the presence and progression of MS over time. In technical terms, these lesions can be categorised as hyperintense, hypointense or isointense based on their appearance on a T2 or FLAIR sequence.
The scan typically takes between 15 to 90 minutes, depending on the type of scan being performed and how many images are needed. Depending on the results of this scan, your doctor may order additional tests or recommend a treatment plan for managing your symptoms.
Your doctor may recommend an MRI if they suspect that you have Multiple Sclerosis. An MRI can help provide a better understanding of the extent and progression of your MS by detecting areas of demyelination in the brain or spinal cord.
Here are some reasons why you might need an MS MRI: to diagnose MS in the early stages; to monitor the progression of MS and track changes over time; to identify any new or worsening areas of damage caused by MS; and to help rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms to Multiple Sclerosis.
Your doctor may also suggest an MRI to help inform a treatment plan. By obtaining detailed images of your brain and spinal cord, they can get an accurate picture of what's happening and make informed decisions about how best to manage your condition.
Ask questions
Before the scan, make sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have about the procedure. This will help give you peace of mind and may even ease some of your anxiety.
Wear comfortable clothing
Make sure to wear comfortable clothing that doesn't contain metal, as metal objects can interfere with the MRI. If you have tattoo inks within your body, let your doctor and the technician know prior to the scan.
Follow all pre-scan instructions
Following pre-scan instructions, such as fasting and avoiding caffeine before your appointment, can ensure that the scan process runs smoothly. These instructions should be given to you by your doctor prior to the appointment.
Bring a friend or family member
Bringing a friend or family member to the appointment can help reduce stress and make your experience more pleasant.
Take a sedative, if needed
If your doctor determines that you need a sedative prior to the MRI, make sure to follow their instructions carefully. Taking a sedative can help reduce anxiety and make the experience more comfortable for you.
Ask for earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones
The loud noises associated with an MRI can be overwhelming. Ask your doctor if these items are available prior to your appointment.
Try relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualisation, and meditation can help to reduce stress before and during the MRI. Practising these techniques prior to your appointment may be beneficial.
Speak up
If you feel overwhelmed during the scan, let your doctor or technician know. They can take steps to make the process more comfortable for you.
Close your eyes and visualise
During the scan, focus on your breathing and visualise a peaceful place. This can help you to relax and stay calm during the procedure.
The scan itself will take around 30 minutes, depending on the type and details of the scan being performed. You will be asked to lie down on a table and remain still throughout the entire duration of the scan. During this time, you may feel a slight vibration or hear a buzzing sound as the MRI machine works. It is important that you stay as still as possible so that the images are clear and precise. Oxygen tubes and headphones may be provided for your comfort during the scan.
Once the scan is complete, you should be able to go home immediately following your appointment. It typically takes 1–2 weeks for test results to come back from the radiologist, unless they are needed urgently. If any abnormalities are found, they will be discussed with you by your doctor.
Accurate diagnosis
An MRI scan can help detect lesions in the brain and spinal cord that may be indicative of MS. Earlier diagnosis means that treatment can be started sooner, potentially providing better long-term outcomes.
Monitoring disease progression
An MRI scan is also helpful for tracking the progression of MS over time. Doctors will compare repeated scans to monitor changes in the brain and spinal cord, which helps them assess how well a patient's treatment plan works.
Identifying other potential causes
In some cases, an MRI scan can also help identify potential alternative explanations for a patient's symptoms, such as infections or tumours that might be causing similar symptoms but require different treatments.
Improving quality of life
By monitoring the progression of the disease with regular MRIs, doctors can adjust treatments to reduce symptom severity and improve the quality of life for patients living with MS.
Reduced reliance on invasive procedures
Unlike other procedures used to diagnose MS, such as lumbar punctures or cerebrospinal fluid analysis, MRI scans are non-invasive and pose minimal risk to patients undergoing them.
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that contains no metal zippers or buttons. Additionally, you may be asked to remove any jewellery before the scan.
Depending on the type of scan being performed and the condition being monitored, MRI scans typically last between 15 and 90 minutes.
Yes, MRIs are considered a safe imaging procedure for most people with no known contraindications to magnetic field exposure. The amount of radiation emitted during the procedure is very low and does not pose any significant risk.
No, there is no pain associated with having an MRI scan. You may feel some slight pressure from the restraints or hear a loud banging noise when the scan is taking place, but this should not be painful or uncomfortable for most people.
Yes, you can typically drive yourself home after having an MRI scan. However, if you experience any side effects or discomfort following the procedure, it is recommended that you do not drive until these have subsided — most especially if you were given a sedative.
The results from an MRI scan typically take up to two weeks to become available, depending on the complexity of the scan. Your doctor will provide further information about when you can expect your results.
No, a doctor will not automatically recommend an MRI scan for patients with MS. The decision to order an MRI is based on the patient's individual symptoms and medical history and may be used in conjunction with other imaging tests to diagnose or monitor the progression of the disease.