Headaches are among the most common health complaints worldwide. 

They can be harmless or they can absolutely ruin your life. Some can even go on to indicate serious underlying concerns. For those who experience persistent, severe or unexplained headaches, further treatment may be in the cards. 

An imaging scan like a MRI or CT can be the most effective way to gain deeper insight into the cause of ongoing symptoms. Which is why, at Oryon, we help patients get clarity quickly with safe, advanced diagnostic scanning.

When is an MRI Needed? 

Lots of people suffer from headaches caused by tension, dehydration, fatigue or poor posture. These can usually be managed with minor to major lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies. 

But, when these headaches creep into becoming more frequent or unusual, they could warrant closer examination. An MRI scan can reveal deeper structural problems that wouldn’t be visible through physical examination or standard imaging techniques.

This is why healthcare professionals often suggest MRIs when your headache comes along with symptoms such as blurred vision, weakness, numbness, memory issues or speech difficulties. Sudden or intense headaches that appear without warning may also prompt a referral. An MRI can help rule out serious conditions such as brain tumours, vascular abnormalities or infections.

What an MRI Can Show

MRI scans use magnetic fields and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of the brain. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not use radiation, making it a safer option for repeat investigations or for individuals who need comprehensive assessment.

An MRI can detect a range of possible causes for headaches. These include growths, bleeding, fluid build-up or abnormalities in brain structure. It can also identify inflammation, nerve compression or signs of multiple sclerosis. 

If a vascular problem is suspected, such as an aneurysm or narrowed blood vessels, MRI can highlight these changes with exceptional accuracy.

Benefits of Early Diagnosis

Living with unexplained headaches can take a toll on daily life. They can disrupt your work life, affect relationships and reduce overall wellbeing. An MRI scan can offer you the reassurance you need by either identifying a cause or confirming there is nothing to worry about.

For those with an existing diagnosis, an MRI can be used to monitor changes and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. It supports informed decision making by giving clinicians a clearer understanding of what is happening inside the brain.

The MRI Experience at Oryon 

At Oryon, we aim to create a welcoming environment before, after and during your scan to ease anxiety and support your peace of mind. 

The entire process is overseen by our expert radiographers who guide patients through each step. Before the scan, we’ll give you a clear explanation of the process so there’ll be no surprises waiting for you.

During the procedure, patients lie comfortably on a scanning bed that moves into the MRI machine. It is important to remain still to achieve the best results. The machine produces a series of sounds during the scan, which can be unfamiliar but are completely normal. This is why we have ear protection at the ready for everyone.

Head or brain scans usually take between 30 minutes to an hour. Once complete, the images will be reviewed by experienced consultants who provide a detailed report. We aim to deliver these results as quickly as possible, helping patients take the next step without delay.

How to Prepare for an MRI

There is very little preparation needed for an MRI scan. 

Patients should wear comfortable clothing without metal fastenings and may be asked to remove jewellery, watches or hearing aids. Those with implants or certain medical devices should inform staff beforehand, as some equipment may not be compatible with MRI technology.

It’s quite normal for patients to feel anxious about enclosed spaces, and any help you need can be discussed in advance. Our team is trained to provide support and reassurance throughout, we have claustrophobia specific tips for how you can use our team to help the scan run smoothly for you.

So, if you’ve been struggling with headaches and in the search for clear answers, we can help. We provide fast, high-quality MRI scans with expert interpretation and outstanding care from start to finish. Whether you have been referred or are seeking a scan directly, our team is ready to guide you through the process with professionalism and compassion. Get in touch today to book your appointment and find the answers you need.