What to Expect During Your First MRI: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re preparing for your first MRI, it’s natural to have questions about what to expect. At Houston MRI & Diagnostic Imaging, we prioritize your comfort and aim to make the process as smooth as possible. To help you feel fully prepared and comfortable, we’ve created this comprehensive step-by-step guide to walk you through what you need to know before, during, and after your MRI.

Step 1: Preparing for Your Appointment

Before your MRI, you’ll receive detailed instructions from our staff. In general, you should wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers or buttons, and remove any jewelry, watches, or other metal objects. Let the staff know if you have any metal implants or devices, as they may affect the scan.

Diet and Medication Restrictions: In most cases, no special diet or medication restrictions are necessary. However, if your MRI involves a contrast agent, you may need to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure to reduce the risk of nausea. Continue taking your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you have any medical implants or health concerns, inform the staff in advance for personalized guidance.

Step 2: Arrival and Check-In

When you arrive, you’ll complete some paperwork and provide details about your medical history. Our friendly team will answer any last-minute questions you may have about the procedure.

Step 3: Getting Ready for the Scan

You’ll change into a hospital gown to ensure no metal interferes with the imaging. If your MRI requires contrast, a healthcare professional will administer the contrast dye, typically through an IV.

Step 4: Inside the MRI Machine

You’ll lie on a padded table that slides into the MRI machine. While headphones aren’t allowed, you’ll be provided with earplugs to minimize the loud noises generated by the machine. The staff will communicate with you through an intercom system to ensure your comfort throughout the process.

Step 5: During the Scan

Remain still while the machine captures detailed images of the targeted area. The scan can take 15–20 minutes (time in the magnet), depending on the complexity of the imaging required.

Step 6: After the Procedure

Once the scan is complete, you can change back into your clothes and resume normal activities. If a contrast agent was used, you might be advised to drink plenty of water to help flush it from your system. Your healthcare provider will have access to your report and images in approximately 1-2 business days after the imaging study is completed.

At Houston MRI & Diagnostic Imaging, we’re here to guide you every step of the way for a stress-free MRI experience. We utilize short bore High-Field 1.5 tesla MRI scan systems for high-resolution imaging, ensuring accurate and reliable results. Contact us to learn more.

Our mission at Houston MRI ® & Diagnostic Imaging is to provide patients and physicians affordable medical diagnostic imaging in a warm and patient-friendly environment. It is our goal to make the medical imaging procedure as pleasant as possible. Our promise to our communities is "hospital quality imaging without the hospital costs" with efficient service to both our patients and physicians.