Is an MRI scan painful?

No. The scan itself is generally painless. You need to remain still, which may cause some discomfort if the examination takes longer.

How long does an MRI scan take?

The duration varies depending on the body part and type of examination. Some scans are relatively short, while more complex examinations can take longer.

Can I eat before an MRI?

It depends on the type of MRI and whether contrast or sedation is involved. Follow the specific instructions given by your imaging centre.

MRI is generally considered safe when appropriate screening procedures are followed. However, certain implants, metal fragments and electronic medical devices can create safety risks. Always inform the MRI team about them before the scan.

Does every MRI require contrast?

No. Many MRI examinations are performed without contrast. Your doctor and radiologist decide whether contrast is useful for the particular examination.

Why does the MRI machine make loud noises?

The scanner uses rapidly switching magnetic field gradients to generate images. This process creates the loud tapping and knocking sounds you hear during the examination. Ear protection is normally provided.

MRI Scan Explained: How to Prepare & What to Expect

An MRI scan can sound intimidating if you have never had one before. The large machine, unfamiliar noises and the idea of lying inside a scanner can make some people anxious. Knowing what to expect before, during and after the scan can make the experience far less stressful.

Magnetic resonance imaging, commonly called MRI, uses a strong magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to create detailed images of organs and tissues. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, MRI does not use ionising radiation.

Here is what you can expect during the process.

What Is an MRI Scan?

An MRI scan is a non-invasive imaging test used to examine different parts of the body. It can provide detailed images of soft tissues, organs, joints, the brain, spinal cord and other structures.

Your doctor may recommend an MRI when more detailed information is needed to investigate symptoms, confirm a diagnosis or monitor a known condition. The type of MRI you need depends on the body part being examined and the clinical question your doctor is trying to answer.

Before Your MRI Scan

Preparation depends on the type of examination.

When you arrive, the MRI team may ask you questions about your health and medical history. You may also be asked to remove jewellery, watches, hair accessories, hearing aids and other metal objects before entering the scanner room.

Tell the MRI team about implants

This is one of the most important parts of preparation. Tell the technologist if you have:

A pacemaker or other implanted electronic device
Cochlear implants
Metal implants or clips
An insulin pump or other medical device
Metal fragments in your body, particularly from an old injury
Any previous problems with MRI examinations

Implants and devices are labelled MR Safe, MR Conditional (safe only when specific scanning conditions are met) or MR Unsafe. The MRI team will check your device against this classification before the examination, so bring your implant card if you have one.

Do you need to fast?

Not everyone needs to fast before an MRI. It depends on the type of examination and whether contrast or sedation is required.

Follow the instructions provided by the imaging centre. If you are unsure whether you can eat, drink or take your regular medicines, ask the MRI team before the appointment.

What Happens During an MRI?

You will usually change into a hospital gown if required and leave metal objects outside the scanning area.

The technologist will help you lie comfortably on a movable table. Depending on the body part being examined, a specialised device called a coil may be placed around or near that area.

The table then moves slowly into the scanner. Most MRI scanners have a tunnel-shaped (closed-bore) design that is open at both ends, though the space can still feel enclosed.

Why is an MRI machine so noisy?

MRI scanners produce loud tapping, knocking and buzzing sounds while images are being taken. These sounds are normal.

You will usually be given earplugs or headphones to protect your hearing and make the experience more comfortable.

You may also be able to communicate with the technologist during the examination. A call button is commonly provided so you can alert the staff if you need assistance.

Why do you need to stay still?

Movement can blur the images and make them less useful for diagnosis. The technologist may therefore ask you to remain as still as possible.

For certain examinations, you may also be asked to hold your breath for short periods.

The exact duration of the scan varies depending on the body part being examined and the type of sequences required.

Will You Need Contrast During an MRI?

Some MRI examinations are performed without contrast, while others require a contrast agent to provide additional information.

A commonly used MRI contrast agent contains gadolinium. It is usually given through a small intravenous line in your hand or arm.

Before contrast is administered, tell the healthcare team if you have kidney disease or reduced kidney function, a previous reaction to a contrast agent, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Reduced kidney function is particularly important to mention, as it can increase the risk of a rare complication called nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.

What Does an MRI Scan Feel Like?

The scan itself should not be painful. You may notice:

Loud noises from the scanner
A feeling of being enclosed
The need to remain still
Mild discomfort from staying in one position for some time
A brief sensation from the injection if contrast is used

Some people feel anxious or claustrophobic inside the scanner. Tell the technologist beforehand if you are worried. The team can discuss ways to make the examination more comfortable.

How Much Does an MRI Scan Cost?

The MRI scan cost can vary considerably depending on several factors.

These may include:

The body part being examined
Whether contrast is required
The type of MRI examination
The imaging centre and location
The equipment and technology used
Whether additional sequences are required

Therefore, there is no single MRI scan price that applies to everyone.

What Happens After the Scan?

In most cases, you can return to your usual activities after the examination unless your doctor or imaging team gives you different instructions.

If you received contrast, the healthcare team may give you specific advice based on your medical history, such as drinking plenty of fluids to help your kidneys clear the contrast agent.

A radiologist reviews the images and prepares a report. Your doctor then interprets the findings along with your symptoms, examination and other test results. It is important to remember that an MRI report should not be interpreted in isolation. A finding that looks significant on an image may or may not explain your symptoms.

Is an MRI Scan Safe?

MRI does not use ionising radiation, which is one of its important advantages. However, the strong magnetic field means that MRI safety screening is essential.

The most important safety step is to tell the MRI team about implants, metal fragments and medical devices before entering the scanner room.

MRI can also cause problems with certain devices or metallic objects, which is why accurate safety screening should never be skipped.

Conclusion

An MRI scan is a detailed imaging test that can provide valuable information about many parts of the body without using ionising radiation. Knowing what to expect, informing the MRI team about implants and following preparation instructions can make the experience smoother.

If you have concerns about the procedure, contrast, claustrophobia or the reason for your scan, discuss them with your healthcare team before the examination.

How PB Health Can Support You

If your doctor has recommended an MRI, PB Health Hospital, IFFCO Chowk, Gurgaon can help you understand why the scan may be needed, which specialist to consult and what your report means in the context of your symptoms. You can connect with the appropriate doctor and access radiology services to discuss your symptoms, previous reports and next steps in care.