How to Prepare for Your First MRI: A Complete Guide

If your doctor has ordered an MRI, you probably have questions. That is completely normal. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is one of the safest and most detailed imaging tests available — no radiation, no surgery, just clear pictures of what is going on inside your body.

Here is everything you need to know to prepare for your first MRI at Advanced Medical Imaging in Seminole, FL.

What Is an MRI?

An MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of your organs, bones, and soft tissues. It is especially good at showing:

• Brain and spinal cord problems
• Joint and ligament injuries
• Soft tissue conditions
• Tumors and other abnormalities

Unlike CT scans and X-rays, MRI does not use ionizing radiation. The FDA considers MRI safe for most patients when proper guidelines are followed.

Before Your Appointment

What to Wear - Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes without metal — sweatpants, a t-shirt, or athletic wear work great - Leave jewelry, watches, and hair clips at home - You may be given a gown to change into

What to Tell Your Technologist Let our team know if you have: - Metal implants — pacemakers, joint replacements, surgical clips, or cochlear implants - Claustrophobia — we have an Open MRI option and can discuss comfort measures - Pregnancy — MRI is generally safe, but your doctor should be aware - Kidney problems — some MRIs use contrast dye that affects kidney function - Tattoos — most are fine, but older tattoos with metallic ink may cause mild warming

Can I Eat Before an MRI? For most MRIs, you can eat and drink normally. If your scan requires contrast dye or involves your abdomen, your doctor may ask you to fast for 4 to 6 hours. Your scheduling team will tell you when you book your appointment.

What Happens During the Scan

1. Check in. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete paperwork and a metal screening questionnaire.
2. Change if needed. You will lock your belongings in a secure locker.
3. Lie down on the table. The technologist will position you and may place a coil (a special antenna) over the area being scanned.
4. Stay still. The table slides into the MRI machine. You will hear loud knocking and buzzing sounds — this is normal. We provide earplugs or headphones with music.
5. Breathe normally. Some scans require you to hold your breath briefly. The technologist will give you instructions through a speaker.
6. Communicate anytime. You will have a squeeze ball or call button to alert the technologist if you need anything.

Most MRI exams take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the body part being scanned.

Tips for Staying Calm

• Close your eyes before entering the machine and keep them closed
• Focus on your breathing — slow, steady breaths help you relax
• Listen to the music we provide through headphones
• Ask about our Open MRI if enclosed spaces make you anxious — it has a wider opening and is much more comfortable
• Talk to your doctor about mild sedation if you have severe claustrophobia

According to the American College of Radiology, anxiety during MRI is common and there are effective strategies to manage it.

After the Scan

You can return to normal activities immediately. If you received contrast dye, drink extra water to help flush it from your system. A board-certified radiologist will review your images and send a report to your doctor, usually within 24 to 48 hours.

Open MRI: A Comfortable Alternative

At AMI, we offer both traditional and Open MRI systems. Our Open MRI is ideal for patients who: - Experience claustrophobia - Are larger in body size - Are children or elderly

The open design is less confining while still producing high-quality diagnostic images.

Schedule Your MRI in Seminole, FL

At Advanced Medical Imaging, we make MRI exams as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our ACR-accredited facility offers same-day and next-day appointments with board-certified radiologists reviewing every scan.

Call (727) 398-5999 or book online today.