How an MRI Scan Can Diagnose Knee Pain in Alamogordo
Wondering how an MRI scan can help to diagnose knee pain in Alamogordo? There are several common causes of knee pain. Doctors can use an MRI scan to get a good look at what’s causing the problem so they can decide on the best course of treatment. Let’s take a closer look at how this procedure works and what it can tell you about your knee pain!
Why does someone need an MRI?
If you’re experiencing knee pain, your doctor may recommend getting an MRI to better diagnose what’s causing it. Not only can an MRI scan help doctors pinpoint a problem like a meniscus tear or ligament injury. But it can also rule out other issues that might be causing your pain. Doctors use three different types of MRI machines to determine exactly what is going on inside your body. Let’s take a look at each type and how they are use to diagnose knee pain.
What you can expect during your visit
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a non-invasive, painless procedure that creates remarkably clear. And detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues without using radiation. When undergoing an MRI, you will be asked to lie still inside a large tube that contains a strong magnet. Radio waves are emitted during MRIs, so there will be no injections or dyes used during your procedure. You will likely not experience any discomfort during your MRI and most patients are able to drive themselves home after their examination.
Why do I have to drink so much fluid before my scan?
Before your MRI, you’ll need to drink at least 64 ounces of fluid (about four 16-ounce glasses) within two hours. Drinking water helps ensure that you won’t be dehydrate during your scan. This can have a negative impact on your results. So it’s important to drink enough fluids before and after your exam. Also, think about what time of day you have your MRI; you may need to increase how much water you drink during that time. Water makes up about 70 percent of our bodies and is use by all of our organs for everything from metabolizing food to producing saliva—so it’s important to make sure that there are enough fluids in circulation when having any type of procedure.
Why do I have to fast before my scan?
An MRI scan involves lying still for about 30 minutes. During that time, your body needs to be completely still so that clear pictures can be taken. Fasting isn’t a requirement for every MRI procedure; if you will be given sedatives before your scan, you won’t need to fast. For some procedures, however, it is necessary and those patients are ask to fast for at least eight hours beforehand. A technician or doctor will make sure fasting isn’t a problem or ask questions if they notice you haven’t fasted. In addition to fasting, you may also have to drink a solution of water and contrast dye (to aid visibility) as well as empty your bladder before your exam begins.
Will there be any pain during my scan?
MRI scans are non-invasive and completely painless. Your scan will be complete while you lie on a flat, comfortable bed that slides into a doughnut-shaped device called a magnet. You will be ask to hold very still during your scan so that images are not blurred, but it is unlikely you will feel anything more than slight pressure on your knee as your doctor moves it into position. The discomfort of sitting with your knee bent for several minutes is far greater than any discomfort caused by having an MRI scan.
Is it going to hurt when they inject me with contrast dye?
No, not at all. Contrast dye makes your MRI results clearer so that doctors can get a better look at your body. The contrast dye will be inject into your bloodstream, and from there it will flow throughout your body. If you’ve ever had blood drawn or receive an IV, then you already know that most needles and injections don’t hurt very much. On top of that, MRI scans are done while you’re lying flat on a table – usually with a warm blanket drape over you and some relaxing music playing softly in the background. And if all of that isn’t enough to keep you relaxed during your scan – remember how I mentioned earlier how clear and detailed these images were?
What do I do if I have allergies or other health problems?
Before getting your MRI, let your doctor know that you have any health problems or concerns. The magnetic field and radio waves used during MRIs may be harmful to individuals with implanted medical devices such as pacemakers, or who are pregnant or claustrophobic. If you’re concerned about these risks, talk to your doctor before scheduling an MRI appointment. While most people experience no adverse effects from MRI exams, there are some things you can do to help ease discomfort: drink plenty of water prior to your exam; take ibuprofen 30 minutes beforehand; lie flat on your back without moving for up to 45 minutes after your procedure is over.
What if I am pregnant or think I might be pregnant?
If you are pregnant or think you might be, don’t panic! An MRI scan is safe for women who are up to 20 weeks pregnant. However, if you are concerned about having an MRI scan. Your doctor can discuss halkalı escort alternative procedures with you to help rule out any problems. Ultimately it’s your choice and always best to discuss concerns with a medical professional.
What if I am claustrophobic?
Being claustrophobic is pretty common. According to Medical News Today, approximately 12% of people suffer from mild forms of claustrophobia and between 1% and 2% of people are severe sufferers. If you are a severe sufferer, MRI technology may be unsuitable for you. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, painless procedure in which radio waves and a magnetic field are assist by a computer to create remarkably clear and detail pictures of internal organs and tissues without the use of radiation. If you do have MRI concerns or concerns with getting into tight spaces then it would be wise to speak with your medical provider before proceeding with any medical imaging such as MRI procedures or CT scans.