dizziness MRI what to expect

Overview

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is a safe, painless test that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. When you have dizziness, an MRI can help doctors look at your brain and inner ear to find possible causes such as nerve problems, fluid issues, or injuries.

Yes. When dizziness is unexplained or lasts a long time, doctors often recommend an MRI to rule out serious causes. It is a very common diagnostic test.

MRI scans for dizziness can be recommended for anyone, but they are more common in older adults, people with balance problems, and those who have had head injuries or repeated episodes of vertigo.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A spinning or whirling sensation (vertigo)
• Lightheadedness or feeling faint
• Unsteadiness or trouble walking straight
• A feeling of swaying or floating
• Blurred vision or difficulty focusing while moving

Symptoms in children

• Frequent falls or clumsiness out of the ordinary
• Complaining of 'the room spinning'
• Nausea or vomiting with balance trouble
• Unusually slow or odd eye movements

Symptoms in older adults

• Sudden or repeated dizziness when getting up from a chair or bed
• Loss of balance that leads to falls
• Dizziness after starting a new medicine
• Feeling unsteady in dim or crowded places

Causes

Main causes

• Inner ear problems, such as loose crystals (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, or BPPV)
• Vestibular neuritis, an inflammation of the nerve in the inner ear
• Migraine-related dizziness (vestibular migraine)
• Reduced blood flow to the brain or ear
• In rare cases, growths or lesions in the brain

Risk factors

• Getting older
• Previous head injury
• Ear infections or inner ear disease
• Migraines
• Certain medicines that affect the inner ear
• Heart or blood vessel conditions

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If dizziness comes on suddenly and is severe
• If you have any emergency symptoms listed above
• If you have a high fever, stiff neck, or severe headache

Book a routine appointment if:

• If dizziness keeps coming back or lasts for more than a few days
• If it affects your work, driving, or daily activities
• If you have hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or nausea with dizziness

Diagnosis

Your doctor will first ask about your symptoms, medical history, and medicines. They may check your ears, eyes, balance, and coordination. If the cause is still unclear, or if there are signs of a neurological problem, they may refer you for an MRI scan.

Tests that may be done

• Physical and neurological exam
• Hearing test
• Balance test (electronystagmography or videonystagmography)
• MRI of the brain and inner ear
• Sometimes CT scan if MRI is not possible

What to expect at your appointment

On the day of your MRI, you will be asked to remove metal objects such as jewellery, keys, and glasses. You will lie on a padded table that slides into a large tube-shaped machine. The machine makes loud knocking or buzzing noises, so you will be given earplugs or headphones. You may have a contrast dye injected into your arm to make pictures clearer. You need to stay very still during the scan. It usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. You can talk to the radiographer, and you can ask for a break if needed. After the scan, you can go home and resume normal activities.

Treatment

Treatment for dizziness depends on the cause found by your doctor and tests like the MRI. Many people improve with physical therapy, simple lifestyle changes, or management of an underlying condition. Your healthcare team will put together a plan suited to you.

Self-care at home

• Move slowly when standing up or turning your head
• Make your home safer by removing loose rugs and keeping walkways clear
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco if they make your symptoms worse
• Drink enough water and eat regular meals
• Try balance exercises recommended by a physiotherapist

Medical treatments

Depending on the cause, your doctor may suggest treatments such as canalith repositioning movements (like the Epley manoeuvre), vestibular rehabilitation therapy with a physiotherapist, medicines to reduce nausea or dizziness, or medications to manage an underlying condition. Always discuss options with your healthcare provider; never start or change medicines on your own.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for dizziness. It may be considered if a specific problem, such as a tumour or a structural issue in the inner ear or brain, is found and does not improve with other treatments.

Living with this condition

Living with dizziness can be frustrating, but understanding your triggers and working with your care team can help. Keep a diary of your symptoms to spot patterns. Take extra care when walking, climbing stairs, or driving until your dizziness is under control.

Lifestyle tips

• Get regular sleep and avoid stress
• Use good lighting and sit or lie down when you feel dizzy
• Avoid sudden head movements
• Wear supportive shoes and use a walking stick or frame if needed
• Let friends and family know how they can help

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with regular meals and enough fluids may reduce some types of dizziness. Gentle exercises like walking, tai chi, or physiotherapy-guided balance training can improve stability over time. Avoid extreme diets or heavy exercise until you know what works for you.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Dizziness can be worrying and can lead to anxiety or loneliness, especially if it makes you avoid going out. These feelings are normal. Talk to your healthcare provider if dizziness is affecting your mood, and consider relaxation techniques such as deep breathing.

Prevention

Not all causes of dizziness can be prevented. However, you can reduce your risk of falls and injuries by keeping your home safe, staying active, and managing health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes with your healthcare team.

Vaccines

Some infections that can affect the inner ear, like certain viruses, may be prevented by vaccines. Ask your health service which vaccinations they recommend for you.

Screening programmes

If you have recurring dizziness, your doctor may recommend regular check-ups with an ENT specialist or a balance clinic. There is no general screening test for dizziness, but routine blood pressure and hearing checks can help.

Complications

If left untreated

• Falls and injuries, such as broken bones or head trauma
• Avoiding daily activities due to fear of falling
• Anxiety or depression linked to persistent dizziness
• Unrecognised underlying conditions, such as a stroke or heart problem, going without treatment

Long-term outlook

With the right diagnosis and support, most people with dizziness improve significantly. An MRI is a helpful tool to guide your care. Even when a cause is hard to find, many therapies can reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Your healthcare team will work with you to find the best way forward.

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