Dizziness and vertigo are common symptoms, and getting a clear picture of why you are experiencing them starts with the right diagnostic tools. If you and your doctor have discussed scheduling an open MRI scan in Brooklyn, NY, this guide reveals what to expect.
Why Are Dizziness and Vertigo Hard To Diagnose?
A Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology study found that 21.6% of 8,519 participants reported experiencing vertigo at least occasionally. And, according to UCSF Health, nearly 40% of U.S. adults experience vertigo at least once.
Of course, dizziness is not a diagnosis on its own. Different patients may describe it as a spinning sensation, lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or just a general sense that their balance feels off.
Since the causes of dizziness and vertigo range widely, doctors may rely on a mix of clinical examination and imaging to narrow things down. If you experience vertigo along with weakness, the combination often prompts an MRI to rule out a serious cause.
Diagnosing Vertigo With MRI Scans
According to European Radiology, the pooled diagnostic yield of MRI among emergency department patients with dizziness or vertigo was 13.1%. Diagnosing episodic vertigo may require detailed images of the brain and the inner auditory canal.
An MRI can capture the posterior fossa area of the brain in greater detail than a CT scan. That region is often where the central causes of vertigo originate, such as inflammation or reduced blood flow.
What To Expect From an Open MRI in Brooklyn
An MRI scan for balance disorders can reveal a range of findings, depending on the cause of your symptoms. This may include abnormalities in the nerves connecting the ear to the brain, or in the brainstem and cerebellum, which help regulate coordination. Some patients find it easier to manage an open MRI setup, especially if they feel anxious in tight spaces.
Get Clarity With Brooklyn Open MRI
Understanding when an open MRI is appropriate for dizziness and vertigo can help you feel more prepared for your next doctor’s visit. For example, an MRI after an accident may offer useful insight into your symptoms.
Call Brooklyn Open MRI at (718) 400-6369. Doctors listed in our directory accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions people ask about getting an open MRI for dizziness and vertigo.
Does Vertigo Always Require an MRI?
No, vertigo does not always require an MRI. Cases with a clear, typical pattern, such as brief positional vertigo, can be diagnosed through a clinical examination.
Can Dizziness Be a Sign of a Serious Condition?
Dizziness can be a sign of a serious condition in some cases, particularly when it is sudden, severe, or accompanied by vision changes or slurred speech.
What Is the Best Imaging Test for Vertigo?
A closed or an open MRI is typically the best imaging test for vertigo. Your doctor may order an MRI of the brain and internal auditory canal with and without contrast.