“Possible Reactions to MRI with IV”
I had a CT Scan with just IV. I did ok with that. The next CT Scan I had was with the IV and liquid to drink. Once the procedure was complete and the IV taken out, my heart started to race so fast that I felt faint. After a few minutes it went back into rhythm. I do not believe it was a panic attack because it occurred after the procedure was done and over. At that point I had no reason to be panicked.
My doctor has now scheduled an MRI with IV (no liquid to drink). It is a week away but I am so panicked about having the same thing happen, that I don't know if I can go through with it. Is the reaction that I had with the racing heart a typical reaction and is the IV different in CT & MRI that I may not have that reaction at all?
I do see a Cardiologist for an irregular heartbeat. I take Metoprolol for blood pressure and irregular heartbeat and I also take Atorvastatin for cholesterol. I have explained these concerns and fears to the doctors and everyone seems to blow it off as though I am exaggerating. Please help. I am so scared but I know I need this done. I am not scared of the MRI. I am scared of the IV and if I will have a heart attack.
My doctor has now scheduled an MRI with IV (no liquid to drink). It is a week away but I am so panicked about having the same thing happen, that I don't know if I can go through with it. Is the reaction that I had with the racing heart a typical reaction and is the IV different in CT & MRI that I may not have that reaction at all?
I do see a Cardiologist for an irregular heartbeat. I take Metoprolol for blood pressure and irregular heartbeat and I also take Atorvastatin for cholesterol. I have explained these concerns and fears to the doctors and everyone seems to blow it off as though I am exaggerating. Please help. I am so scared but I know I need this done. I am not scared of the MRI. I am scared of the IV and if I will have a heart attack.
Female | 49 years old
3 Answers
Just do it and don't worry. It was a panic attack. The two contrast materials are completely different; there is no cross reaction.
The incidence of a reaction to MRI IV contrast is extremely rare as compared to CT contrast. We utilize a rare earth metal vs CT dye. Reactions to each are not related. I hope this helps.
I see no reason why you should be concerned. I would go ahead and do the MRI.
