What is a MRI Head?

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head is a painless, anoninvasive test that produces detailed images of your brain and brain stem. An MRI machine creates the images using a magnetic field and radio waves. This test is also known as a brain MRI or a cranial MRI.
• An MRI scan is different from a CT scan or an X-ray in that it doesn’t use radiation to produce images. An MRI scan combines images to create a 3D picture of your internal structures, so it’s more effective than other scans at detecting abnormalities in small structures of the brain such as the pituitary gland and brain stem. Sometimes a contrast agent, or dye, can be given through an intravenous (IV) line to better visualize certain structures or abnormalities.

Why do I need a MRI Head?

A head MRI is a useful tool for detecting a number of brain conditions, including:
• aneurysms, or bulging in the blood vessels of the brain
• multiple sclerosis
• spinal cord injuries
• hydrocephalus, a buildup of spinal fluid in the brain cavities
• stroke
• infections
• tumors
• cysts
• swelling
• hormonal disorders, such as acromegaly and Cushing’s syndrome
• hemorrhage, or bleeding
• inflammation
• problems with development or structure (such as achiari malformation)
• blood vessel issues
• An issue due to a previous head injury.
• A head MRI can help determine whether you sustained any damage from a stroke or head injury.

Your doctor may also order a MRI Head to investigate symptoms such as:
• dizziness
• weakness
• seizures
• changes in thinking or behavior
• blurry vision
• Chronic headaches.

How to Prepare for a MRI Head?

You should not have to do too much to prepare for a MRI head. You may be able to eat, drink and take your medications as usual. However, if your doctor ordered a scan for other parts of your body, such as your abdominal region, they may instruct you not to drink or eat four to six hours before the test.
MRI machine is essentially a magnet; it can interact with metals, thus creating a blurry image. That’s why it helps to leave metal items at home before your appointment, or remove them before you enter the scanning room. You can prepare for your scan ahead of time by removing the following items from your body and pockets:
• Body piercings
• Pens
• Jewelry
• Hearing aids
• Pins
• Hairpins
• Zippers or any metal clothing fasteners.
• Removable dental work.

Before you schedule your appointment for a brain MRI, make sure to inform the medical staff if you have any of the following conditions:
• Brain aneurysm clips, metal plates or any metal implants.
• Artificial heart valve.
• Pacemaker.
• Inner ear implants.
• Artificial joints.
• Women should always inform their physician and the MRI technologist if there is any possibility that they may be pregnant.
• You should inform your doctor of all medications you are taking and if you have any allergies.
• Inform your doctor of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions and whether you have a history of heart disease, asthma, and diabetes or kidney disease.

In case of contrast Examinations:
• You should not to eat or drink anything (fasting) for a few hours (4 to 6 h) before the exam.
• You should do renal functions test.