Multiple Sclerosis Health Center

Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis With MRI

What Happens During the MRI Exam?

You may be asked to wear a hospital gown during the MRI scan.

As the MRI scan begins, you will hear the equipment making a variety of different sounds, including a muffled thumping sound or banging sound  that will last for several minutes at a time. Other than that sound, you should experience no unusual sensations during the scanning.

Certain MRI exams require an injection of a contrast material. This helps identify abnormalities in certain parts of the body on the scan images.

Feel free to ask questions and tell the technologist or doctor if you have any concerns.

What Happens After the MRI?

Your doctor will discuss the test results with you. Most imaging centers will give you a copy of your scan on a CD disk that you can take to your doctor at your next appointment. It is a good idea to let your doctor know that you have completed your scan, so that he or she can contact the imaging center to get your report. Generally, you can resume your usual activities immediately.