lung MRI what to expect

Overview

A lung MRI is a safe, painless scan that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of your lungs and chest. It helps doctors see structures like blood vessels, airways, and any growths without using radiation.

Lung MRI is less common than chest X-ray or CT scan, but it is often used when doctors need more detail about soft tissues or blood vessels in the chest.

It can be used for people of any age, including children, to help diagnose or monitor conditions like lung cancer, infections, blood clots, or structural problems.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Persistent cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing up blood

Symptoms in children

• Persistent cough
• Wheezing
• Frequent lung infections
• Difficulty breathing

Symptoms in older adults

• Persistent cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue

Causes

Main causes

• To investigate abnormal findings on other tests like X-rays
• To evaluate the extent of known lung disease
• To check blood vessels for clots or abnormalities

Risk factors

• Smoking
• Family history of lung disease
• Exposure to harmful substances like asbestos or pollution

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your doctor suspects a serious condition like a blood clot or cancer, they may arrange an urgent MRI.

Book a routine appointment if:

• As part of monitoring a chronic lung condition.

Diagnosis

A lung MRI is one of several imaging tests. Your doctor will decide if you need one based on your symptoms, medical history, and results from other tests.

Tests that may be done

• Lung MRI (with or without contrast dye injected into a vein)

What to expect at your appointment

You will change into a hospital gown and remove all metal objects like jewelry. You lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine – a large tube that is open at both ends. The machine makes loud knocking or buzzing noises; you will get earplugs or headphones. You need to stay very still, and the technologist may ask you to hold your breath a few times. The scan takes 30 to 60 minutes. You can talk to the technologist through an intercom.

Treatment

The results of your lung MRI will help your doctor understand what is going on. Treatment depends on what the scan shows. It may include monitoring, medications, or other procedures.

Self-care at home

• After the scan, you can resume normal activities right away.
• If you had contrast dye, drink plenty of water to help flush it out.

Medical treatments

Depending on the findings, your doctor may recommend medications such as antibiotics for infections, anti-inflammatory medicines, or treatments for blood clots. They may also suggest breathing treatments or therapies with a lung specialist.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a result of the MRI itself. If the scan finds a problem like a tumor or serious airway blockage, your doctor may discuss surgery to remove it.

Living with this condition

After a lung MRI, you do not need any special care. If you feel anxious about the scan, talk to your healthcare team beforehand. They can help you relax.

Lifestyle tips

• If you are claustrophobic, let your doctor know. They may offer a mild sedative to help you stay calm during the scan.
• Bring a friend or family member to the appointment if allowed.

Diet and exercise

No special diet or exercise is needed before or after a lung MRI. You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is normal to feel nervous about having a scan. Remember that it is a safe and painless test. Deep breathing or thinking of something pleasant can help you relax.

Prevention

A lung MRI itself cannot be prevented or avoided. But you can take steps to keep your lungs healthy, such as not smoking and avoiding harmful fumes.

Complications

If left untreated

• If the MRI is delayed and there is a serious condition, it could worsen without proper diagnosis and treatment.

Long-term outlook

Lung MRI is a safe and valuable tool. It provides important information to guide your care. Most people find the test easy to tolerate, and results can help your doctor choose the best treatment.

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