How Should You Prepare for Your MRI Exam?

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, you can eat, drink and take your usual medications before your MRI. Leave jewelry, watches and other metal items at home. Avoid makeup, nail polish and hair products that may contain metal particles. Tell your imaging team about any implants or medical devices, and bring the device information if you have it. Follow any instructions provided before your appointment. If you're uncomfortable in small spaces, let us know when you schedule so we can match you with the most comfortable machine available. Most of our locations offer wide-bore MRI, and open MRI is available at select centers.

What Should You Expect After an MRI Scan?

After your MRI, a radiologist will review your images and send a report to your doctor, who'll explain the results and any next steps. At American Health Imaging, you'll also receive a Scanslated® report by text within 48 hours after your report is finalized. The text includes a link to your patient-friendly report with clear explanations and diagrams to help you understand your results.

When Is MRI Not Right for You?

MRI is safe for most people, but certain implants, medical devices and metal fragments may pose safety risks. These include some pacemakers, aneurysm clips, cochlear implants and implanted pumps. Many newer devices are compatible with MRI under specific conditions. Your imaging team will review your medical history and device information to determine whether MRI is safe for you. If MRI isn't an option, your doctor may recommend CT or ultrasound instead.

When Do You Get Contrast for an MRI?

Your doctor may recommend MRI contrast to make certain tissues, blood vessels or areas of inflammation easier to see. Tell your care team if you have kidney disease, have had a reaction to MRI contrast or are pregnant.

How Long Do MRIs Last?

Most MRI scans take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being examined and the images needed. At American Health Imaging, faster scanning MRI technology, available at many of our locations, reduces many scan times to as little as 8 minutes. Your technologist will explain how long your scan should take. Plan for extra time to check in and complete your safety screening.

Where Is American Health Imaging Located?

Every American Health Imaging center offers MRI, so you can choose the location that fits your schedule. Our centers serve communities in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Tallahassee, FL, San Antonio, TX and Beaumont, TX.

Category: MRI

Blog › MRI

Do MRI Scans Use Radiation?

Learning that you need an imaging test often brings up questions about safety. One of the most common concerns is whether MRI uses radiation. Does MRI have radiation? No. MRI uses a powerful...

October 19, 2026 – 9 min read

Does an MRI Show Nerve Problems?

If you’ve been dealing with tingling, numbness or a burning pain that keeps coming back, your doctor may recommend an MRI to find out what is causing it. An MRI can show many...

October 7, 2026 – 9 min read

Can Endometriosis Be Diagnosed By MRI?

If you’re living with painful periods or pelvic pain that returns month after month, it may be time to investigate endometriosis as a possible cause. Can endometriosis be diagnosed by MRI? In many...

August 26, 2026 – 8 min read

Why Should You Get Medical Imaging Soon After a Personal Injury?

After a car accident, fall or other injury, you may feel shaken but mostly fine. Many injuries don’t show their full effects right away, though. Getting medical imaging soon after a personal injury...

July 15, 2026 – 7 min read

What Does Appendicitis Feel Like?

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch located in the lower right side of the abdomen. If you’re wondering what appendicitis feels like, the most recognizable sign is pain that...

July 8, 2026 – 8 min read

Does MRI Show Blood Clots?

If you or your doctor suspect a blood clot, getting clear answers quickly can make a real difference in your care. An MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, can show blood clots in many...

June 16, 2026 – 10 min read

Can You Get an MRI With Dental Implants?

If you have dental implants and your doctor has recommended MRI imaging, you may be wondering whether it’s safe. Most people can get an MRI with dental implants. MRI machines use powerful magnets,...

May 29, 2026 – 6 min read

Does Early MS Show Up on MRI Scans?

A brain or cervical spine MRI can often show early signs of multiple sclerosis even before your symptoms fully point to MS. This non-invasive imaging test uses magnetic fields and radio waves to...

April 24, 2026 – 7 min read