What Is an MRI of the Brain?

An MRI is a magnetic resonance imaging. A brain MRI is performed so doctors can monitor a patient's brain activity. A brain MRI helps detect brain trauma caused by accidents and also detects possible occurrences of stroke and brain aneurysms as well. MRIs use a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to help diagnose patients.

Preparation for MRI

• You should wear loose-fitting clothes when undergoing an MRI. You will likely need to change into a hospital gown instead of your normal clothes. You can't wear jewelry, body piercings or have other metal objects on your person when undergoing a brain MRI.

Significance of Brain MRI

• A brain MRI is used to detect head trauma. The doctor can detect dangers to your brain such as swelling, internal bleeding and tumors.

Equipment

• The MRI machine is a long tubular machine. It is surrounded by a large circular magnet. Your body is laid out on a bed allowing you to enter the machine for analysis.

Is it Painful?

• A brain MRI is relatively painless. You may experience discomfort due to being in a closed space. Besides causing patients to become a little antsy, MRIs create no other known side effects.

Why Should I Get an MRI?

• A brain MRI allows the doctor to see what she normally wouldn't see with the naked eye or other imaging equipment.