“Do I need to get an IV for an MRI?”
I have recurring migraines, and my doctor is having me get an MRI. I am also terrified of needles. Will I need an IV?
4 Answers
AN MRI of the brain for migraine is usually done without contrast injection and an IV is not needed.
Only if it's ordered with contrast, but you can refuse the contrast and still have the MRI without.
You would need an IV if gadolinium based contrast is to be used. Don't be scared. There are much worse procedures in medicine and events in life so consider the IV a minor inconvenience. You will be proud of yourself for being brave!
If the study is ordered as a contrast study, i.e., an MRI with contrast, you will need an IV. I also don't like needles. You can get your doctor to prescribe a lidocaine/prilocaine cream, also known as EMLA cream, which will numb your skin so you don't feel the needle. It is best to apply 1-2 hours before the needle stick (I usually do two hours) and, once applied, place saran wrap over the area and leave it in place until you get the IV.
