Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a common medical technique used to track the effectiveness of disease diagnosis and treatment.
Doctors use MRI scans to accurately image parts of the body to determine the root cause of symptoms.
This article provides an overview of what diabetics need to know before getting an MRI.
What is MRI?
An MRI scanner is a machine that uses powerful magnets, radio waves, and computers to generate detailed images of the body.
The MRI machine itself looks like a large tube or donut with open ends. A bed-like platform for patients slides in and out of the central open space.
Another type of MRI is an open MRI. There is a wider opening rather than a patient tube, and some people may find it less confinement or claustrophobic.
Diagnostic radiologists usually read the results. The radiologist then relays the information from the scan to the health care provider who originally ordered the test.
In most cases, getting an MRI lasts from 30 minutes to an hour. The fastest scan is about 15 minutes, while the longest scan is about 90 minutes.
Why does someone need an MRI?
Getting an MRI is safe. It is not exposed to ionizing radiation or X-rays.
MRI imaging plays an important role in helping medical professionals diagnose illnesses and injuries. They also help track progress in a series of treatment courses.
A doctor can order an MRI to diagnose a number of issues, including:
- Circulation and vascular problems
- The problem of gastrointestinal tract that is difficult to diagnose
- Heart or lung problems
- Abdominal organ problems
- Tumor or mass
- Bone condition, spinal problems, sports injuries
- Brain abnormalities
What is the difference between MRI and CT scans?
MRI scans and computed tomography (CT) scans are two common types of medical imaging.
MRI scans use a powerful magnetic field to develop images of areas within the body.
A CT scan is a series of rapid, continuous x-rays. These photos combine to create a cross-sectional image.
Generally speaking, MRI provides better resolution and contrast when imaging soft tissues, including several organs in the brain and abdomen.
CT scans are much faster than MRI and are often better at solving lung and bone problems.
Can I get an MRI if I have diabetes?
People with diabetes can get an MRI.
Let your healthcare team know you have diabetes in case special considerations or precautions are required.
What should people with diabetes know before an MRI?
Communication is important! Ask your health care provider if there are any special things you need to prepare for diabetes. You should also ask a radiologist or MRI technique question before the scan begins.
Controlling your blood glucose levels is also an important part of preparing for an MRI.
Some diabetics find it easier to have an MRI in the morning. Usually, dawning phenomenon tends to cause high blood sugar levels.
Schedule an MRI when your blood sugar levels tend to be higher than average. This is a good way to avoid the need to stop the scan to treat low ones during the MRI.
For the same reason, it is best to avoid scheduling an MRI at mealtime.
You will need to remove the insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) you are wearing.
Most insulin pumps and CGMs are considered “MRI risk” because they contain metal. The powerful magnets on MRI machines can damage or destroy these devices.
If you are using an implanted CGM like Eversense, please also tell your MRI technology and your healthcare provider. You may need to remove the implant before scanning.
You will also be asked to remove any electronics or metals you have. This includes a metal medical alert bracelet.
MRI techniques will guide you on breathing and will help you stay still. If you feel your blood sugar levels are out of range, it’s important to let them know.
Don’t be afraid to speak up, whether your blood sugar levels are very high or low. If necessary, you should be able to leave the MRI room and get a snack or take a modified dose of insulin.
Should I fast before an MRI?
Your doctor or radiologist will tell you if you need to fast for your MRI. I recommend asking you to make sure.
Generally, you are not asked to fast for a long time before an MRI. A shorter speed between 2-4 hours when scanning becomes a little more common.
Whether fasting is necessary often depends on the image of the body part.
If you are scanning the gastrointestinal tract or adjacent organs of the abdomen, you are much more likely to order a fasting MRI.
Additionally, many people prefer not to drink too much liquid before an MRI so they don’t have to go to the toilet during the scan.
Can MRI affect blood glucose?
At least one study links MRI to a slight reduction in mean blood glucose levels, but there are currently no medical device warnings related to hypoglycemia.
There is also no evidence that receiving an MRI increases blood sugar levels.
Nonetheless, it is always a good idea to make sure that the person performing your MRI knows you have diabetes.
It is also good to know your own blood sugar level before the MRI begins.
Conclusion
MRI scans help healthcare providers diagnose illnesses and injuries and play a key role in tracking the progression of a series of treatments.
MRI scans are extremely safe, including those with diabetes.
However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider and those who are performing an MRI that you are performing an MRI so that you can recognize any special considerations.
If your MRI is pre-scheduled, it is also a good idea to think about what time to get the highs you experience on a daily basis to get the MRI to dodge it.
If you have a medical device such as a pump or CGM, check what you said to your doctor and the person performing an MRI.
It is also a good idea to ask if you need to fast or change about food and water intake on the day of the MRI.
Hopefully with these tips, you’ll feel better knowing that getting an MRI is nothing to worry about if you have diabetes or not!
