MRI

If you suffer from migraines, joint pain, suspicious lumps, or other unusual symptoms, see the experts at Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. in Tyler and Lindale, Texas. The experienced providers offer on-site MRIs to diagnose and treat your condition effectively. To learn more, schedule an evaluation by phone or book one online today.

What is an MRI?

An MRI, also called magnetic resonance imaging, is a diagnostic procedure that uses computer-generated radio waves and a magnetic field to create detailed images of organs and other tissues within your body. Such images allow your provider to diagnose medical conditions contributing to troublesome symptoms and properly treat them to avoid complications.

What are MRIs used for?

Your Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. provider might suggest you undergo an MRI if you have symptoms of, or are at risk of developing the following:

• Organ, brain, spinal cord, or bone irregularities
• Multiple sclerosis
• Aneurysms
• Eye or inner ear disorders
• Tumors
• Strokes
• Brain trauma 
• Blood flow irregularities
• Head injuries
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Heart damage
• Joint damage
• Spinal disc abnormalities
• Bone infections
• Breast cancer
• Other cancers

MRIs can also diagnose problems with your bile ducts, liver, spleen, kidneys, pancreas, and prostate gland in men or uterus and ovaries in women. 

How can I prepare for MRIs?

While there’s typically no special preparation needed before you undergo an MRI, you may have to change into a gown before the procedure. Remove any jewelry, hearing aids, and metal objects. Avoid wearing cosmetics containing metal particles. 

If you have a fear of being in enclosed spaces, you have the option of taking a sedative to relax you. Your specialist might also inject a contrast medium (dye) through a vein in your arm to enhance detail in the images produced by an MRI. 

What happens during MRIs?

During the MRI, you lie on a movable table that slides into a larger tube. Your provider monitors you from another room and uses a microphone to talk to you. The MRI machine that surrounds you develops images of specific structures within your body. The procedure is painless, though you might hear thumping or tapping sounds.

Your session might last just 15 minutes to an hour or longer. During an MRI, you must hold still or complete tasks as directed by your specialist to ensure the most precise, accurate images. 

If you haven’t received sedation before an MRI, you can resume typical activities immediately afterward. A Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. specialist reviews the results with you and determines if you need further diagnostic testing, treatment, or care from another specialist.

Call the Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. office or use the online booking feature today to determine if you’re a candidate for an MRI.