Patients trying to get to the bottom of an elusive ailment, or even those who underwent routine health screenings, often get frightened when their doctors request MRIs. There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding MRIs, from what they're used for and how they work to who can be screened by them. 

In reality, MRIs are life-saving technology, and the myths around them must be dispelled so people can get the tests they need.

MRIs, X-Rays, and CT Scans Are All the Same

MRIs, X-rays, and CT scans fall under the umbrella of “diagnostic imaging,” but they couldn't have more different purposes.

X-rays, like the kind sold by Patient Image, are the most common type of imaging technology. They use radiation to produce internal images of bodies. They are instrumental in imaging bones and teeth, as highly calcified objects appear bright white.

MRIs use magnets to pass radio waves through the body. They can pick up on soft tissue, nerves, and blood vessels in a way that CT scans and X-rays can't. They also don't use any radiation.

CT scans use radiation like X-rays but produce a more finely detailed interior picture. They're often used to scan for blood clots and organ injuries.

If Your Doctor Requests an MRI, Something's Wrong

The biggest misconception around MRIs is that they're only called for when something is seriously wrong with a patient. 

An MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging machine, can create detailed 3D images of organs and tissue inside the body. All it means when a doctor orders a round of MRI scans is that they want to see exactly what's going on inside the body.

MRIs can help medical professionals to identify cancer, tumors, and infections, sure, but they can also help monitor normal heart and brain functioning.

MRI Scans Can Expose You to Radiation

This is an easy misconception to make if you don't know how MRIs work. They employ magnetic fields and radio waves to create their internal images. They don't use radiation, like X-rays, CT scans, or PET scans, though those are also perfectly safe.

New portable MRI technology has proven life-saving to doctors treating medical emergencies like strokes. Far from making patients sick, they can help patients get on the path to healing.

You Can't Get an MRI If You Have Metal Implants or Hardware

If you have metal implants and your doctor orders an MRI, talk with them. In many cases, you can still go forward with the scan, but there are instances where metal implants shouldn't be exposed to MRIs' magnetic fields. 

If you have titanium implants or metal tooth fillings, you are perfectly safe to get an MRI. As the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering explains, MRIs do come with some warnings beyond patients with metal implants. You should sit the MRI out if you have a pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, or deep brain stimulator.

Uncovering the Truth

Don't be afraid of MRIs. They're perfectly safe to use and can help you unlock the truth of how your body is functioning, so you can take control of your health.