MRI question....help!?

Question

I am having an MRI this week and I am having a contrast media injection. First, does it hurt, swell or have any other side affects? Second, can I go right back to work after my MRI or do I have to take it easy after my injection?

Answer 1

I have been in medical imaging for over 15 years, and I have never (not even once) seen an adverse reaction to MRI contrast.  MRI contrast is much different than the contrast used in CT scanning.  Gadolinium doesn't make you feel funny or drowsy and doesn't interfer with medications you might be taking.  Because the contrast does not make you feel nauseated, there is no need to fast prior to your scan.  And, darn it, you will be more than able to continue on with your regular activities, including work, when you leave the imaging facility.  Does it hurt?  It feels like a small needle entering the vein in the inside of your elbow.  Some people are needle-phobic and others aren't, so that is your call.  Best wishes....

Answer 2

i had the same thing done to my hip and the needle is very long, but it didnt hurt. i went back to work and just sat down for a little while and i was fine. it also depends on where the needle will be stuck and the amount of pain you can tolerate. good luck

Answer 3

they contrast medium RARELY has side affects, be it barium or the like.  You wont be able to eat that morning, or even the night before.  No swelling or nothing like that.. and it naturally has a fast half-life that filters itself out in urine.. you will be able to go back to work, but i suggest eating something first... this is for the average CM MRI... not guaranteed for your case, i may add.

Answer 4

the injection is just so the MRI goes smoothly the side effects should be as followed:

raishes

trouble breathing (rare)

That's about all. The injection is mostly like a normal shot it shouldn't hurt.

And yes you do have to take it easy just for a day maybe.

Answer 5

MRIs are just fine, they put in a like a tube, but you cant move. they give you music with a headset. and you may want to take it easy for maybe 2 or 3 days. For me, it was easy,but it last about 45 min. to about 1 hour

Answer 6

The MRI isn't bad, but the injection does hurt.  I don't know if it was just me, but my whole arm was sore after the injection, and I bruised really badly.  I think my nurse just might not have been good at giving it. However, it doesn't really have any side effects other then hurting a bunch, so you should be able to go right back into work.  You may want to eat something right after if you feel queasy, but should have no problem going back into work shortly after!

Answer 7

I have had many MRI with contrast media injections the last one within the last 2 months and I have never has a bad reaction or pain.