Multiple Sclerosis is a disabling disease that impacts the brain, the central nervous system, and the spinal cord. The symptoms of the illness can vary significantly by the patient, making it difficult to diagnose. Recent research suggests that an MRI may be a valuable tool in diagnosing MS. An MRI scan may indicate the presence of the illness because it shows whether there is any damage to the myelin sheath in the brain and spinal cord.
The Role MRI Plays
Discovering this damage and thus diagnosing the condition is crucial as it allows doctors to prescribe medications and other helpful interventions to control the disease and manage symptoms. Here is everything you need to know about the connection between MRI scans and the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.
What Is an MRI?
A magnetic resonance imaging test, commonly referred to as an MRI, is a scan that uses magnets and computers to create detailed pictures of the body’s interior. Doctors use the test to diagnose diseases and to determine how well patients are responding to treatments. These tests are beneficial in locating soft tissue and nervous system issues.
Besides MS, an MRI can help detect the following conditions:
- Blood vessel harm
- Traumatic brain injury
- Certain types of cancer
- Spinal cord injuries
- Stroke
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Eye diseases
Unlike other imaging scans such as X-rays, MRIs do not utilize harmful ionizing radiation technology. Therefore, MRIs are a preferred diagnostic tool of many medical professionals.
Advantages of Getting an MRI
There are many types of diagnostic tests being used by medical professionals today to detect various ailments. There are many benefits of getting an MRI to diagnose an illness compared to getting an X-ray or a CT scan. First, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not invasive and is painless. Other tests can be painful and may require the use of invasive technology. On the other hand, MRI machines are large, tube-shaped magnetic machines.
When a patient lies inside the tube, a magnetic field temporarily straightens water molecules inside the body. These painless waves produce faint signals, which are used to create MRI pictures. These pictures can quickly and painlessly capture images of various organs and structures inside the body. A scan can be used for virtually any part of the body, and it can produce large, detailed images in a short amount of time.
MRI Images
Second, MRI images are quite detailed and are advantageous in detecting various ailments and abnormalities inside the body. MRIs are particularly useful in detecting issues with the brain, heart, eyes, or spinal cord. These scans are also helpful in monitoring how your body is responding to treatments for conditions including heart conditions, liver disease, and tumors. The magnets produce such detailed images that doctors can recognize relatively small changes within the body.
Third, an MRI exam is helpful in the early detection of certain diseases. The advanced technology used in MRI machines can detect various abnormalities, even in the very early phases. Early detection is crucial to the effective management of disease and ensures patients have as many treatment options as possible.
Finally, MRI images are better at producing images of bones than CT scans. MRI scans are more skilled at differentiating between body structures, including soft tissues like fat, muscle, water, ligaments, and cartilage. A better image of these structures helps diagnose nervous system issues such as multiple sclerosis and spinal cord lesions.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis, often referred to as MS, is a potentially debilitating illness that impacts the brain and spinal cord. In patients suffering from MS, the immune system attacks the protective layer that surrounds nerve fibers and prevents communication problems between your body and brain. As this protective sheath is repeatedly attacked, the nerves can be permanently damaged, eventually leading to various symptoms.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for MS at this time. However, some treatments can manage the symptoms associated with the disease. Early detection is crucial to ensure patients are put on the proper course of medication to manage symptoms.
Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis vary widely depending on the individual and the extent of nerve damage. Some people suffering from the illness lose the ability to walk and require consistent care, while others effectively manage their symptoms with medication and lead normal lives.
The primary symptoms associated with MS involve the nerves and the spinal cord. As a result, sufferers often experience the following symptoms:
- Difficulty walking
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Spasms
- Tingling and numbness
- Pain
- Depression or anxiety
- Poor body control
- Poor bladder or bowel control
Early signs of the disease are often a lack of feeling in the hands or a pins-and-needles sensation in the fingers. Contact a medical professional immediately if you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with MS.
Causes of Multiple Sclerosis
Medical professionals do not know for sure what triggers MS. However, certain things may make a person more likely to develop the disease. For instance, some people with a family history of MS may be at a higher risk of developing the disease, while smoking may also increase the likelihood of developing MS. Some recent studies also suggest that those with a vitamin D deficiency are more likely to develop the disease.
Multiple Sclerosis MRI Spine Connection
MRI scans are crucial in diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis as they can detect areas of damage in various parts of the central nervous system. Lesions in the protective layer surrounding nerves are a primary sign of MS. MRI tests can easily detect these lesions and detect other associated abnormalities. MRI scans can also help doctors successfully monitor the progression of the disease once someone has been diagnosed. MRI scans produce pictures that can help doctors monitor how the disease develops and how a specific treatment works.
Schedule an Appointment with Brooklyn Open MRI
Are you looking for high-quality MRI services in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, NY? Specialists and technicians at Brooklyn Open MRI are committed to providing patients with the latest MRI diagnostic testing services. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.