Home Tests and Procedures MRI Basics What you can expect 

# MRI

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# What you can expect By Mayo Clinic staff During the test The MRI machine looks like a tunnel that has both ends open. You lie down on a movable table that slides into the opening of the tunnel. A technologist monitors you from another room. You can talk with him or her by microphone. The MRI machine creates a strong magnetic field around you, and radio waves are directed at your body. The procedure is painless. You don't feel the magnetic field or radio waves, andthere are no moving parts around you. During the MRI scan, the internal part of the magnet produces repetitive tapping, thumping and other noises. Earplugs or music may be provided to help block the noise. If you are worried about feeling claustrophobic inside the MRI machine, talk to your doctor beforehand. He or she may make arrangements for you to receive a sedative before the scan. An MRI typically lasts less than an hour. You must hold very still because movement can blur the resulting images. In some cases, contrast agents are injected into your veins to enhance the appearance of certain tissues or blood vessels in the images. During a functional MRI, you may be asked to perform a number of small tasks — such as tapping your thumb against your fingers, rubbing a block of sandpaper or answering simple questions. This helps pinpoint the portions of your brain that control these actions. After the test If you haven't been sedated, you may resume your usual activities immediately after the scan. Nursing mothers shouldn't breast-feed for 24 hours after an MRI if a contrast material was used.

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