MRI Aternatives

[EmpressArtist]

Hello MS family,

I have a question by chance do you know of any other MRI alternatives for scans? I used to be in a pediatric MS group where they shared alternatives for their diagnosed children with MS. Anything that one would recommend without contrast or dye? I used to have each order placed with contrast. But since I was 21, it has since not been placed in a requisition order. I’m just seeing if there is anything safer.

Kind regards 😊

[NorasMom]

There are no alternatives to MRI's at this time, but I think most doctors reserve the contrast for new diagnoses or extenuating circumstances. How often have you been getting MRI's?

[EmpressArtist in reply to NorasMom]

Hello,

Thank you for your message. I started getting MRIs in 2016. But that would make sense because I stopped receiving contrast around 2022. My provider has now moved my sessions to once a year but I’m always wondering if there are natural ways to address medical processes. Thank you for your guidance and help. 😊

[Helpmeup]

There are currently no alternatives to an MRI, but I have learned a few things about getting contrast dye. My neurologist always orders my scans with and without contrast dye. I have questioned this a few times, and she feels it is necessary. I found out that I can refuse the contrast during the scan. So after more than 25 years of getting brain scans with dye, I finally decided to just say no to the contrast. Of course, it is important to discuss this issue with your neurologist, do your own research, and make a decision that you feel is best for you. Take care.

[EmpressArtist]

Thank you so much for this information! This is very helpful. I didn’t know much about the dye portion until I started researching. It lets me make an informed decision for sure! 😊

[sashaming1]

I thought that there was some new method out there to do the same thing as a MRI - but I don't remember what it is. The gadolinium ts used to differentiate between any new lesions v.s. the old ones in my case since I was diagnosed with MS in 1986.

[EmpressArtist in reply to sashaming1]

That is very interesting! I didn’t know about that. And yes that’s exactly something I saw on the Pediatric MS page via FB. Something very similar and it started giving some not all a reaction.

[stepsforNeeC]

Hello Empress Artist, I wish I knew? I always have to get w w/o contrast and that makes the MRI longer, which I dread 😢 What you come across, please share with us! Blessings NeeC

[EmpressArtist in reply to stepsforNeeC]

Hello!

Yes that is the most dreadful part! Longer and I would feel like radioactive feel in the machine. I don’t know if other patients feel it but I do. It’s uncomfortable. And this is now without contrast if I find something I will definitely be sharing!

[mrsmike9]

I have not had the dye for several years. I think my scans are stable enough that the neuro doesn't feel it's necessary. I'm sure if something shows up that they need to look at closer, the dye will come.