COMMENTS
I have seen time for MRA procedure ranging from 10 minutes to 120 min.
Why the variability?
Gary,
Brain MRA's are generally only 10-20 minutes long. MRA's of other vessels such as the aorta or arteries in the leg can take much longer.
I have a 2m aneurysm that was luckily discover in the summer of 2008. I get MRAs every six months to monitor it to see if it has grown. My doctor says that at the size it has been (2m), it causes no need for a coil or any other operation but if it grows we may have to rethink my options. My MRA takes about 30 minutes and I am glad I have BC/BS insurance so I just have a $100 co-pay.
How long is an MRA good for I always get headaches and had an MRA 7 years ago and a CT last year, how long are these tests good for? should i worry? I get headaches almost everyday.
Is it possible to see, on a scan, what could be irritating a small area of nerves in the brain that are firing extraneously? This preceded the formation of cancer cells.
What sort of scan will show the nerves of the brain close enough to analyze?
Hi, I suffer from daily headaches, I think its stress but had an MRI and was called to go do an MRA because the dr. says they want to see my vascular arteries, she mentioned something like enamoli but couldn't find anything on it. She said not to freak it could be something I was born with and if not we will cross that road when we get there. I am very scared, any suggestions.
I am having an MRA brain scan and an MRI tomorrow. I am a little nervous not knowing what to expect. My doc ordered the tests as a result of occasional sharp stabbing pains in my head and then an episode last week of an extremely terrible pain in my head... one of the worst pains (other than childbirth) that I have ever experienced. So, I am having some anxiety. Anyone out there share my symptoms?
I am having a mra next week. They are trying to rule out a aneurysm. Although I am not so sure I have one. I had a bad episode about a month ago. Went to bed, put my arms up over my head while laying flat to push a window up,then got this unbeleivable loud noise in my head with some pain, and saw nothing but black . I then hyper ventilated due to how frightened I was. Went to the hospital. I immediatly started getting the dizzies and aloto pressure in my head. Here I am a month later, still dizzy and still off work, and scared. Any ideas of whatis wrong with me?
Annie--I'm guessing your doctor was saying that they're looking for any "anomalies" which simply means differences--like vessels that are formed differently too narrow or ballooning out--both of which can cause problems. How did it go?
Bonnie- I too am having the same symptoms and I am waiting for the final report on an MRA done after an initial MRI. My pain is VERY localized and frequent. Have you heard anything yet?
Hi, I to suffer from terrible headaches and was accidently diagnosed with a 4mm periopthmalic anuerysm behind my right eye almost a year ago which they found on during a MRA. I had-had previous CT scans only a fews earlier missing it and an MRI 2days earlier also missing so THANK GOD for the MRA that found it. Because I too had suffered the in-describable headache along with this pain in the back of my head going down into my neck and shoulders accompanied by lightheadedness followed by vomiting then eventually I passed out where I was rushed to the closest ER. That was in June of 2008. The pressure I felt building inside my head an behind my right eye was nothing like I'd ever felt before or ever want to feel again. For the hospital to only discharge me after doing a CT scan of my brain had showed nothing abnormal(which months later I'd learned were very poor imagines) and that my bloodwork indicated I was anemic they then discharged me 6 hours later with a bloodcount of only 7 which at the time they NEVER told me and a diagnosis of MIGRANES???????? They Never bothered to due a lumbar punture to see if I was actively bleeding(which would explain the low bloodcount) which months later I learned I probably was. When my anuerysm was discovered and I told the doctors what had happened to me 5 months earlier.
BONNIE AND CHEAPMOM!!!!
I'm not a doctor, but I have a similar problem it sounds like you two have. It went undiagnosed for years because of its rarity. I encourage both of you to look into a possible neuralgia- a nerve pain. Trigeminal neuralgia is the most common form, but there are others. I have glossopharyngeal neuralgia, which causes horrible pain in the left side of my face and mouth. See if you think the symptoms match up and then try and get an appt with a neurologist.
God bless you both!
I had an mra about 2 yrs ago. I called my doctor because I was having strange symptoms,I was sitting in car as a passenger holding a plate of food everything got cloudy,and all I could see was that cloud.Nothing else and little by little it went away.By the time I got to 8th block everything went back to normal.
hi i am going for an mra and a mri because i keep fainting and having seizures and i am very scared should i be scared ? thanks
this is a awsome website you made!!
thank-you for this site,even my neurosurgen has not explained this test so well(england; don't seem to have time)
and to the worried people..have reasurace, i have lived with large a coiling, and two anuerisms, for seven years now.
My question is;
Brief history, usually my two anurisms(proximal left A1/A2 junctional & base of coiling site) are monitored by angiogram, but a severe allergy to contrast dye(blindness and severe pain for up to three weeks,and once anaphelactic shock)has prompted them to instead give me an MRA this time (without contrast)
but are the images comparatively acurate enough with, mra to a contrast angiogram, to monitor tiny increases in size?
thanks.
im having an MRA Wednesday Feb 3 and im a nervious wreck.. my blood pressure is high and im dizzy as heck have been for months now.. they ordered a MRA brain without co they told me it would take 30 mins i hope not that long i hated my MRI it took forever any suggestions ty
I'm scheduled for an MRI and an MRA on Feb. 12 at Northwestern in Chicago. I suffer from migraines after I went through the change, but in August I had a horrible migraine (or i thought it was at that time), but when I went for my regular eye exam, the optomitrist freaked out because he saw a lot of bleeding behind the right eye. He immediately sent me to a retina guy who said it takes a while for this bleeding to go away. Okay, fast forward to October. Went back again to the retina guy, bleeding still there, did laser surgery in his office. January, 2010. Back to the retina guy, eye somewhat better, but still have bleeding. Had enough. Made appointment with my neurologist. I had my retina guy send her the test results and she immediately said that I've had a stroke. She ordered an immediate battery of blood work up and MRA & MRI. Nervous about the results will be. She did say she was going to look at the results immediately on Saturday and said that if I have to be hospitalized, I would have to come right back to the hospital. Now that made me nervous.
Woke up 10 days ago with double-vision (Diplopia). CT scan at ER was negative. Left eye is most affected. No significant eye or head pain. Getting MRA COW later today. Neurologist suspects a ruptured blood vessel near optic muscles/nerves(form of stroke). I will report on the experience later today.
Was also told it was a stroke from the retina guy in January, 2010. But he didn't do anything preventative. That's why I went to my neurologist. I haven't heard from her yet.
Completed the MRA COW. Postings here and elsewhere indicated that it would only take 15 minutes, but I was in the Open MRI machine for nearly 50 minutes! Each 7 to 10 minute segment of scanning was followed by a short break where I could change position a little bit. Moving and streching between scans seemed to help. It would be easy to have an arm or leg 'go to sleep' without the movement. The tech said that many folks get claustraphobic and have to get out of the machine between scans. I found that if I just kept my eyes closed and focused on my breathing, I had no problem at all. Also, I had ear plugs so the noise (which is a common complaint) really wasn't bad. I'm used to using a variety of power tools and the sound wasn't too different from many types of electric saws and grinders. More of a pulsating vibrating sound than pounding hammers. A little self-discipline goes a long way! My neurologist should get the scans in a day or so.
I'm having these same symptions and will have an MRA on Monday. Was very interested in the post by Jodi Beidleman on Friday, October 9, 2009, as I've had two episodes with hearing a loud noise in my head. Now a pressure feeling behind my left eye and upper cheek, and feeling dizzy and unstable. Best wishes to all of you.
Have head migraines and dizziness for 4 years, just got bad enough 2 months ago I had to go to the ER. Have not worked for 2 months now. I can't drive, I get extreme motion sickness, nausea, headaches, tinnitus, neck pain, ear pressure, and a bunch of other things. I've seen 4 doctors now, who all think its Bickerstaff Syndrome with Basilar Migraines. I've had a CT, clear, an MRI, clear, and just got back from and MRA of my neck and head, and will have the results next week. Hopefully will find out there is something wrong so I know what's wrong with me! Anyone have the same issues?
going to have an mra n mri 2morrw feel so anxious suffer frm severe migraines havent been able 2 wrk for almost 3 years depressing.... just hope they can find aever is mking me have these bad migraines n this excrusiating pain on neck n shoulders its like a burning sensation plus d pain mri's nor ct scans showed nothing but this must come from somewhere i say, if any1 feels like i do please let me no i feel so alone in this since doctors dnt seem 2 no were it comes frm, for almost a year i couldnt move my left arm they said it was like a stroke till this day tats wat i got frm them dnt no wat 2 do meds get me more sick than make me feel better lets c how this goes i will b bck 2 share hw it went ..... thanks
ruselen
It would be helpful if somewhere at this site you could post the Dangers of MRA's radiation, and the recommendations. thanks
Thanks for this website. I am having the same sharp stabbing pains on the left side of my head. I went for a MRI and MRA Monday afternoon because my doctor suggested I see a Neurologist to try and figure out what is causing my daily headaches and blurred vision. By the way, the optometrist / opthomologist did not find anything other than needing a new prescription for glasses. I too am not able to function properly at work and am relieved to hear that I am not the only one. Please post back and share with us any findings from your doctors. God bless all of you!
Hi Nick - MRI/MRA exams don't use radiation.
[Last post was 2/22. Here is my update.] MRA results were negative for aneurisms and other serious conditions. My diagnosis is Abducens Nerve Palsy (aka 'Sixth Nerve Palsy')causing temporary double vision. This condition is the result of a form of stroke, where the blood vessel that serves the 6th facial nerve was blocked affecting the nerve that controls the key muscles that keep the eyes moving in tandem. My left eye has limited motion and does not align with the right eye, although my actual vision in both eyes remains about the same. A second neurologist has confirmed the diagnosis. Prognosis: Complete recovery within about 8 to 12 weeks (possibly longer). I wear a patch over the affected eye that allows me to drive, work, and generally function well in any activity that does not require significant depth perception. I am now in my 7th week and the only noticeable change is that when I patch the good eye and use the affected eye, can now walk without significant dizziness. The diplopia (double vision) remains when I try to use both eyes together. As annoying and personally upsetting as this experience has been for me, it is certainly mild compared to the symptoms suffered by other posters to this blog. My prayers go out to all of you. May you be correctly diagnosed, free of pain, and fully healed soon.
i am having mra this week because mri showed no significant change from 4 yrs ago stabbing pains on right side of head at times is like a gunshot going off.very quick and very stingy stabbing lasting sometimes 30 sec. to approx 3mins. any one know ?
i feel everyone's pain on here. Im having the same problem's just woke up one day with this. at time's my head has these sharp pain as well as in my neck. my head feel's like water is leaking at time's.one day i just felt like i was going to pass out and im always weak and dont want to do anything.i went to have a mra done and something is going on with my blood vessels in my head i go tomorrow to have blood work done> i just dont where its coming from im just so scared about what they are going to tell me. im keep everyone in my pray's
im going to have a mra scan and am only 9
I was diagnosed with a AV hemangioma in 2003 after having a serious grand mal seizure requiring hospitaliztion and a long recovery. It is where the frontal, temporal and parital lobes meet, deep in my white matter. All resources believe it is not operable due to the location, the benefit does not outweigh the risks. I have not had a MRA for at least 4 years and have recently increased my Keppra due to seizures and frequency increasing. I also have my heart beat in my right ear, non stop and the sound is loud, pulsating and very annoying. Does anyone else have such a thing?
Robbie,
If the heart beat sound is new you should bring this up to your doctor. This could mean that there has been a change in your AVM - more blood flow directly from the arteries to the vein. The vein that drains each side of the brain goes right past your eardrum area.
I have chronic daily headache for 5 years ,I have been taking myospaz forte daily for 5 yrs but leading Neuro surgeon told me get MRA Brain to dignos the real cause of CDH,I also have undergone Angioplasty 9 mths back ,Pls advise me what should do to treat CDH. I was advised to take Benadon / Folvite /Falicita OD / Tryptomer 1/2 night along with Clopilet 75 /MetXL 25/Ecosprin 75 becoz I also Higher BP last for 7 yrs.Pls advice.
Had an MRI 2 weeks ago and showed 2 small strokes. Neurologist is sending me for MRA day after tomorrow because I can not walk a straight line (heel to tow) I can walk OK though.
Hi i have recently had what they suspect to be 4 strokes went straight back to normal after the first 3 but have remained very dizzy and memory loss after this last one, one professor thought it my be epilepsy. I recently had an MRI+MRA and have not received the results yet so i'm freaking. Was just wondering from the people that strokes have been seen on the MRI were they pointed out on the pictures or written in the report?
I have the pictures but not the report, really wish i knew what i was looking at. A response would be great
Nat,
Most MRI images are not marked. The results are discussed in the report. Some Radiologists will refer to the specific image in the report (eg "series 3, image 10") to help the referring physician see the finding.
what does it mean if the mra is abnormal due to absence of flow of the right A1 segment with perfusion of the right A2 segment via the anterior communicating artery with a slight decrease of perfusion of the right A2 segment when compared with the left
I was diagnosed 2 yrs ago with a pituitary adenoma. They drilled up thru my nose Aug. 2008 and removed 80% to relieve pressure from the optic nerves. The next March (2009) the tumor had grown back. They then did Gamma Knife surgery (radiation) on the tumor. The MRI in August showed the tumor was not growing or shrinking but had sists (fluid filled sacks) growing from it. I had noticed alot of pain on the sides of my neck, Dismissed it as stiff neck. They did another MRI in Oct. (no change) then another MRI in May 2010. The sists were growing again. The Neurosurgeon said there was also a problem with a major artery, so a follow up MRI and an MRA was done the first of this month showed no change in the sists or tumor and he will refer me to a vascular surgeon about the artery. I have had two episodes this month of severe pain (stiffness) in my neck. My head ears and jaw also hurt severely for days at a time. I had a heart attack last June and then angioplasty on that stent and another stent placed in my chest in January. I also have blockages in both legs, but because I'm on Plavix (for clots) they won't do by-passes untill after January. Is the pain in my neck caused from the recent MRA, or blockages, or anourysms? I don't know. Hormonal problems from the pituitary and thyroid glands are bad enough, now it is a pain in the neck with the hot flashes....Help
i have had a mri /mra but no results yet i also have the striking pains in my neck its like a very painful cramp it all started in feb ,i got sick to my stomack diarehia i walk like im drunk ,very dizzy all the time now i have not heard from my neurologist about the mra the mri showed small strokes but they could be old because when i went to my doctor he even make the appt for me i did it so be your own advocate you know your body my problem began with a ear virus that was mistaken for infection , so now i have lost 75percent of my hearing i have been to nine doctors thanks to the fact nobody would send me to my neuroligist i made the appt i should know something soon i will let you knowe kiste
HI my headaches have been going on or a while. When I get them they last at least 3days. My head pounds and feels like it is going to burst. During the episode I am sesitive to light, smell, just about everything. I finally went to the ER about 2 months ago and was told I needed to see a neurologist. I had and MRI done and was told a spot was found on my brain and I needed to have an MRA done. I am really scared but I guess I finally want to know what is going on. Scared but hopeful
I got news I got a sis on my Brain on Monday and tuesday mra I go for
Re: July 27th entry.
I was referred to Vascular Surgery, they did what they call a carotid doppler test. Its ultrasound. I was told one of the 4 arteries going to my brain is clogged, there is nothing they can do. But not to worry, there are many people walking around out there with only one artery supplying the brain. They also told me the pain in the sides of my neck has nothing to do with it. They are scheduling an X-Ray for that. I am to continue taking Plavix and an aspirin daily. I am also taking black strap mollasses daily for the tumor, per earthclinic.com....Hang in there ya'll, its amazing what modern medicine and prayer can do..Take care, Tom
After reading most of the postings I feel scared but also reassured. I have suffered from 2 severve headaches the first lasted for 6 days on the 4th day I went to ER because as I was getting ready for church I kept dropping items Like the hair brush and my phone items not normally the type of items that would easily drop. So anyways they did a CT and of course normal. I've had another one this past weekend and both times on the right side and my vision is affected. My vision In my right eye is still not right and I also have the pain in the neck, I'm so fatigued, along with dizziness at times, nausea, last but not least i got out of bed and hit the floor like my legs just couldn't support me which happened with the last headache! So went to the doctor and they took 6 vials of blood and I go for my MRI and MRA with and without contrast. Which is what I wanted to ask those of you who have already gone through this, did you gve the test with contrast? Just ready for some answers!!!!!!!
To Richard,
I know it's been 5 months since you had your post but I hope you can still read this. I feel almost all of what you have mentioned. I've migraine and tinnitus and ear pressure is bothering me a lot. I hope you share the result of your MRA and what happened. What is the diagnosis? I'll have my MRA tomorrow. Thanks.
I saw the neurologist for memory loss. They did a MRI and said I had a stroke. I am 72. Now I will have a MRA. What can I expect of learn?
Marilynn,
The MRA will evaluate the vessels of your brain and detect any significant blockages which lead to your stroke.
Richard and Herma
I have been recently suffering from the same symptoms, head pain, and ear pressure along with eye pain, dizziness, slightly slurred speech and weakness.
I have spent a couple days in ER and they have ran CT's and Lumbar Punctures, and now have me scheduled for a MRA on Sept 21st. I am hoping they figure out what is causing the pain soon. Have either of you two had any luck in your diagnosis or treatment?
I have been having severe stabbing pains on my left side of head, I also have some kind onf "noise" going on in my ears, Neuro set me for mri/mra for this thurs. but was wondering if any of you on here have had the same symptoms??? its been going now for 6 weeks, the noise in my ears is worse than the pain in my head, weird?
I have been feeling pressure in my head for a few months - at first my primary doc thought it was sinus problems - my BP was high - approx 155 / 100 and I am a healthy 8 yo male - i work out every other day and do cardio - I went to a Ear nose and throat specialist and that came back as fine so I went for a CAT scan of the sinus and nothing that was fine - since then I have had an MRI ,MRA and most recent an MRV the MRI did show a small meganitis between the scalp and brain and the MRA showed that there is in fact flow pressure issues being slowed because of this and now I have to see a tuomor specialist this week and I am nervous - I want this contact head pressure to go away and I am hoping that they can do something !!!! any help , ideas , experiences , feedback ??? thanks
My Chiropractor who I've been seeing for years for headaches, wants me to have an MRA done. I quit smoking in March and my headaches have gotten significantly worse since then, and the chiropractic adjusments always used to work for me... but not anymore... migraine meds don't work... ibuprofen, aleve, tylenol, excederin... nothing! the only thing that has eased the pain is Vicodin. A constant headache, occasional sharp shooting pains, and I also feel like I have a tight blood pressure cuff around my neck making my head throb and occassional extreme head rushes.
I posted a blog already but as an update I called my family Dr and my neurologist to see if they would order an MRA as kindly suggested by my Chiropractor, Neurologist said that an MRA is not used for Migraines. My family doctor said I need to discontinue ALL pain meds for at least 2 weeks because they think they are "rebound headaches" and taking them actually makes the headaches worse. I should know by the end of the 2 weeks if this is true...
I've recently been diagnosed with Sixth Cranial Nerve Palsy. I noticed a blogger above named Rob who was diagnosed back in July. If you see this blog, I would like to know if the diplopia has abated yet. I had MRA, MRI, blood tests and all were negative. Idiopathic. I'm in my third week of diplopia. Manageable, but awfully annoying. If anyone accessing this blog is concerned or anxious about the MRA/MRI, fear not. I'm 6'3" and 230 lbs. and I didn't feel any anxiety during procedure. If you're afraid, just ask your physician for an Rx for Xanax. Take one 30 min prior to test. It'll really calm you down and relax you. You're already anxious about a health concern, so why suffer more? Best wishes and prayers to all.....Will
Diagnosed with 6th nerve palsy. Had 5 MRI's. Rob, what happened to you? Will, what's happening with you? I'm going on 4 weeks and nothing great is happening. On Monday, I'll be going to a neuro-opthomologist. I'll see what he says. It's very uncomfortable Hope there will be a light at the end of the rainbow. Joan
Joan: Four weeks for me too with the Sixth Cranial Nerve Palsy. Started with optometrist, then family practice doctor, then neurologist, then opthamalagist. All head and brain scans resulted in no abnormalities (tumor, stoke, vascular issues - thank God). Who knows how long the diplopia will last. I was fitted for glasses with prisms and they do correct the double vision, but the prism on the affected eye (right)creates sort of cloudy, annoying vision. I'm driving now and getting by with an eye-patch, sun and reading glasses with right side occluded. Sigh! Sure is annoying. Doctors just don't know what caused this. Let me know how you're doing. Why five MRI'S? Try to be patient ....Will
Hi Will
I've posted comments but I don't see any. Today is 6 weeks. The 6th nerve palsy is a little better. It's difficult. I'm not driving yet and still depend on others. The doctors say it will go away by itself. I wonder? How are you doing and everyone else who made comments?
Joan: I'm doing much better. It's been almost seven weeks since onset. My straight ahead vision is back to normal, but I still have diplopia when I look to the right or when I look over my right shoulder, but even that is improving a bit. I can read, drive, jog and work now without an eye patch or occluding the right eye of reading glasses or sunglasses. Have a follow-up appointment with neuro this morning. Try to be patient. It may take some time, but I think all will be well. What did the neuro-opthomologist have to say?
Hi Will I'm so glad you're getting better. My optha-neurologist said it might take 4 months. I know I must have patience but it is quite difficult. My eyes are about 30% better than they were at the beginning, but things are still blurry. Wearing the patch makes things a little lopsided. It's uncomfortable. Hopefully things will turn out okay. Eyes are a prized possession. Thanks for logging in. Joan
My mom recently died from a brain anyeurysm. On a recent visit to my primary care physician he recommended I see a neurologist due to family history of anyeurysm and the fact that I have headaches. I had a neurological exam done which was normal and had a MRA done just for precaution. Today I found out that they detected an abnormality on it and they said something about the pituitary gland. They also said it is probably nothing. Now I have to go get an MRI next Monday. I'm very scared. What could it be?
Hi,my mother has been dizzy since 10/10/10. she asy she does not have a headache but she does have some ringing in her ears from time to time. she had a stroke three years ago that effect her kidney now she is on dialysis, the primary dr sent her to to have a ct of the head and a doppler, she had a mri/mra today. The ct showed nothing but the doppler show shw a cerbullar atrophy that the dr never explained to us , but he said it was ok to to. so now we are waiting patiently for the results of mri/mra. i feel so sorry for my mother she dizzy everyday she does not go out in more because everyone think she drunk she cannot walk to the bathroom without holding wall. please help us try and get my mother life back, being on dialysis is tough enough but not being able to keep your balance is hard. its being blind to my mother i have to lead her around .What could it be? HELP
Good site. I have terrible headache & neck pain for few months. It feels like a liquid is running in the middle & top of my head. The pain starts in the neck. I also had alot of pressure on my left eye & ringing in the ears. I saw th eye dr nothing, everything was negative. I am having an MRA & will see the neurologist again to get an EEG done.
I was diagnosed with a stroke three weeks ago although after two CT scans and MRI scan they could not find anything, they said the results were clear. The left side of my body was affected, leaving me with difficulty walking, short term memory loss and extreme fatigue. I am to have a repeat MRI scan done butas yet have not had an appointment set for this. I am confused as to why my scan results all came back clear, yet i have been diagnosed with having a stroke and left with unpleasant symptoms afterward. If the results are clear then how could this be a stroke i have had? Why is nothing showing up in my scans and why do i need a repeat scan?
Just had an MRI and MRA done because of persistent pain starting from the back of my neck to the back of my head to my left eye. Have had it every day for about two months. I had the MRi don at Cedar's Mark Taper- don't have it done there- my doctor did not receive it yesterday (mon), and I had it done on Wed. THey were pretty miffed about this, and said this is not uncommon for Taper to pull this kind of crap (my words not theirs) I am still waiting for the results. I have a blood clot in my leg that I had since Dec of '08, and am on blood thinners, so I am limited to what I can take for pain killers. Right now I am inreally bad pain and do nothing but lie down all day.
Hello I've been suffering from headaches and dizzy spells. I had some test done they came back that I have a block vein on my neck or decade. Is a scary thought not knowing what's wrong with you. But I'm scheduled for a MRA on Thursday hopefully they can tell me more and if they can unclogge it or will I have to take medicine for the rest of my life.
Hi Maria,
I had the same procedures because of a pituitary adenoma, they do an Mri every 6 mos. Recently they sent me for an MRA because of concern with a brain artery. After the MRA confirmed the problem, I was sent for a carotid doppler (ultrasound) and referred to Vascular surgeon. He told me it was a clogged artery, nothing they can do. But because I'm taking Plavix for a recent heart attack, to continue with the Plavix (anti-clotter). He assured me there are 4 arteries going to the brain and there are people out there with only one that is not clogged...so no matter how bad we have it, someone always has it worse. Good luck and keep us informed. Prayers are with you, Tom
when i sleep i am awaken by a blunt strike in my head, always the same place.upper right side just above the hairline....the pain is startling but last only a few seconds....my neurology said "headaches", its not a head ache lasting only a few seconds...she does not know what it is, or what causes it? last night for the first time my finger tips felt they had hit electricty, only for a few seconds, all this wakes me up and is very scary, ANY CLUES?????BEEN GOING ON FOR 8-9 MONTHS WITH THE HEAD...
i to have heart beats in my ears or pulse beats i asked my phy,he just stared at me ,i have had small strokes which showed up onthe mra i also had a mri ,i have hardening of the arteries ,no talk of what can be done,i walk like im drunk so my phy sent me to therapy to no avail,ive decided to be my own advocate,i am not any better no cure i guess but i wont give up .elizabeth
Cerebral aneurysm 2004 coil embolism /also a stent placed in the brain 2006. Doing fine really blessed every day. Recently my neurologist requested MRA. An MRI was questionable with my titanium stent. MRA uses magnetic devices too perplexed
I sat and read every blog. it made me cry partly with relief that im not alone. I am waiting my tests to establish what is happening, i get pins & needles in my limbs and back, the immense pain in my head and neck, dizziness, walk like i am drunk, pain in limbs and occaisional paralysis, tiredness and incontinence. i think ill find the tests a doddle.
thinking of you all, god bless.
I am going for a MRI/MRA on march 15
my symtoms are severe headaches on the left side only, severe pain in the left side of my neck,and also behind my left eye feels like it is going to pop out of its socket.. and if I turn my head to fast I feel like I am going to pass out
lena harmond
My message is for you.
I had a MRI and MRA scan done 26th March 2011 which i found worse than having 8 attempts of a lumbar puncture, which for me was painful cos the doctor hit the siatic nerve.
But i have been having same symptoms as you, although alittle worse i think, and i have been diagnosed with mini-strokes, i am now having tests done urgently.
I find out on Tuesday what the results of the MRI and MRA scan were i had a MRI scan done 4 weeks ago, which shown up 7 white spots.
I hope you get a 2nd opinion and go have some other tests done, they are all quite horrible tests, none are particulary nice to have done.
Thank you for this site, i only wish i had found it the night before the tests, and not the night after the tests, also someone mentioned above, but the UK websites do not give the UK patients enough information on why a MRA scan is performed.
Thank you!
I HAVE BEEN HAVING PAINS IN THE TOP OF MY HEAD LIKE SHOOTING ELECTRICITY IT IS ALWAYS IN THREES ONE TWO THREE PAINS THAT ARE INTENCE. I HAD A MRI AND MRA FRIDAY. WAITING FOR DR TO CALL BACK RESULTS. HAS ANYONE HAD THIS WHAT WAS THE OUTCOME?
persistent headache for 7 weeks now. the first week it put me out cold but has become more tolerable since then. the pain does go away when I lay down but starts when I get back up again. often times, it feels like a lot of pressure, almost like I am underwater. MRI was clear so now they did and MRA. Anyone with symptoms like these? Also, this past week, I have experienced slight numbness in fingers, change of taste and red bumps on chest. I think that may be a side effect of Topamax but not sure.
I have experienced one week of pain to the right back side and top of my head. The pain is constant with occasional bursts of pins and needles/ burning sensations. Analgesia does not work and makes me nauseaus/lethargic. My BP is slightly elevated. I have visited my doctor several times and the ER once. Non contrast CT and bloods are normal. I am having a MRI/MRA on Monday. I am very stressed that the pain has not resolved and fear that something terrible is going on. Any one else have a similar experience?
I have been battling migraines since August of last year. I am 15 years old and I am often in and out of school. I have been misdiagnosed and seen by many doctors I don't even know what I might have anymore. I have taken topamax and the side effects were horrible. I couldn't concentrate on anything and I was slowly loosing my memory. The medication I am on now is amitreptyline and it isn't working. Nothing has been. I asked my doctor if there was any other tests I could have to make sure that basilar artery migraines was what I had. The only other test I have to take is this MRA. I'm so nervous for it because nothing is working for me, and doctors are telling me they know what they are doing when they have no idea.
hi my daughter who is only 8 years old has been getting severe headaches for the last 8 weeks she goes very dizzy and sees colours she cant function properly when she gets these she just lies down and does nothing movement makes them worse she had a ct scan and it came back that the basilar artery appered denser for a child of this age she is now booked in for an mri brain and mra brain im very concerned as nothing has been explained to us as to what it could be if anyone has any information i would be very gratefull got to wait 2 and a half weeks before she has the scans
I have been getting a burning pain and just a pain in the top of my head and my right eye has been gsetting blood shot. scheduled for a mri and mra next friday. ct scan showed everything normal.
I have been having headaches for the past 5 months. Not always horrible but constant so my doctor scheduled me for an MRI. They called me with the results and told me that I had some abnormalities and I needed to go see a neurologist and that was it. I am not sure what to think about all of this I have an appointment set for Friday. Any ideas on what they mean by abnormalities?
hello iam peggy and i feel out in jun i dont know how long and since i been haveing headaches only on the left side of my head above the temple toward the back 3 weeks ago i was justing siting on my sofa and blacked out for 20 min i dont remember much its like that part of my life is gone i was takken to the hospital i had a mri and cat scan and blood work the cat scan showed a anurisms that dr said was a size like a quater when i get these headache my left side of my face goes numb and my left arm and leg like a sack of concret and my left eye feel pruser when the pain ease all feeling come back .iam very scared to drive incase it happen again i still have headaches every day
I have been having complex migraines for 16 years and am on several daily medications that have been working until recently, (probably due to my age, 46). Last week I had 2 instances in which I got lost within 2 miles of my home. My blood work came back with high homocysteine levels and I have a MRA/EEG scheduled for next week. (I had an irregular EEG in 2005). Any thoughts? I'm going crazy trying to figure this out. In the mean time, my Nuerologist ordered B12 shots.?
I have been off work since June 1st with balance problems,trouble making my legs move,back pain,arm tremors,had sev. MRI's and CAT scans and nothing shows, had a balance test and ENT thought I had a ear virus and am now doing PT to train my brain for the balance problem. Now my primary doctor is doing another brain MRI and MRA to rule out MS and ALS.PT isn't helping much,I feel something is bad wrong,would just like to know what it is.I am 63 and put in for SS benefits because I'm too dizzy to drive.Will probably be going to KU to see if they can help me. Does anyone have any ideas?
Ive read all the above posts, I have had problems for years, but have several other issues that factor in and make diagnosis's harder to make.
First, a congenatial fusion of the C1-C3, some arthritis in the C-4, C-5, and herniated disks at C6, C7, add to that a history of motion sickenss since childhood, TMJ, recently discovered an AVM, also appears from birth, Ive had headaches on and off for the past 2-3 yrs, with bouts of horrible headaches, nausea, excessive vomiting, dizzy, etc...that put me in the hospital for 4 days twice now in the last year. I also have high blood pressure, and some heart related issues. Because of the condition of the neck, I am in constant pain with that, this year I have finally went through the shots (through between the shoulders) and also facet joint injections to the neck 3 on each side. That all seemed to give relief, however not for long. Injections into the opt. nerve at the base of the skull also have been done twice, some relief, but didnt last. I have had MRI's CAT scans the CAT showed nothing abmormal other than the AVMs found in an earlier MRI, I am scheduled for a MRA this week to see if the problem might be vascular related, hopeing to find out the problem and hope there is a solution, daily headaches, dizzyness is no way to live...Good luck to all the rest of you as you search for your answers and solutions.....
Hello
This message is intended for
Joe who posted on april 16,2011
I have exact same headache as you except the pain gets so bad that it makes me puke. I can't ride in a car because i will puke. Have been in ER 3 times in 2 wks. Lumbar puncture was neg, ct scan negative. Referred to neurologist and am getting scheduled for MRI/MRA. I am a little worried and didn't know what your mri and mra showed?
Tony
How did my MRA show I had a 9mm blockage that led to my ischemic stroke 9 hours AFTER I had the stroke and my symptoms were all gone?
On Aug 1 of this yr I got out of bed & made coffee as usual. I passed out cold on kitchen floor & was taken to ER. That hospital did a brain scan & was not equiped to handle my problem, bleeding aneurysm. I was taken to another hospital & was in coma like state for several hrs. Family was told I had a 5% chance of surviving 24 hrs. I finally was seen by a team of neurologists & family told they could coil the aneursym but after effects could be paralysis or I could become a "vegetable". Decision was made to have coiling done. Spent 2 wks in hospital & then sent to rehab for another 2 wks. Came home & had PT at home for 3 wks & then PT outpatient for another 2 mths. I am having another mra done shortly because I have another aneursym that drs want to see if it has changed. I worked very hard at PT & am now back to doing everything I did before that episode, including driving. My father died from an aneursym at 39. I did not know this could be inherited but as I now know my 3 children have each had an mra & have been cleared. I have been told this will not skip a generation so grandkids do not need to be tested. I am hoping the next test will prove negative & I can continue living a normal life. Good luck to all of you.
Severe headache on my right side on 12/19,with dizziness, sorta falling to the left when I walked.
Went to ER the CT scan looked fine, ordereda MRI/MRA with contrast and had that done yesterday, waiting on results.
After this severe headache on Monday, my head feels sore and when I try to bend over it really hurts bad. I still feel dizzy and as though I am in "slow motion" all of the time.
I have been off of work Tues, Wed, Thurs, but came into work today (Friday) because I just feel guilty missing work BUT soo worried as to what is going on.
A much higher percentage of Brain MRA's are done without the use of IV contrast, but there are a few opportunities where the use of IV contrast is necessary for Brain MRA's depending on the patient sypmtoms. Also, in answer to first question on the list; often, the longer the sequence running the MRA, the higher the resolution of the images and the more volume is covered, so be patient, and try to hold still for your benefit.
How does an MRI show you had a blood clot 9 hours after all your stroke symptoms are gone. I had a 9mm blot that caused a small stroke. They did an MRI 9 hours after the stroke and all my symptoms were gone. How did the MRI show a clot if my symptoms were all gone?
Hello. Mu symtoms... I had 2 "TIAs", one just this past october and one 3 years ago. I have really bad memory, and the tia's affected the left and then the right side of my body. I am left with a stutter when i get upset. I have extreme pain in the palm of my hand that radiates up to my armpit then down my left side. I get the "underwater" typr hearing sometimes whem people talk to me and i cant make out what they are saying. this passes after a while but comes back. i had an MRA/MRI done today and I am anxiously awaiting the results. As with many of you, the pain is unbearable and no pain meds i have been given work. I dont have the headaches, but there is pressure constant in my head. I also see little white lights from time to time...
Just found the blog. I'm going into my 15th months with VI nerve palsy in the left eye. Had one MRI in Aug. 2011 along with blood work and it showed nothing except the nerve turning the eye medially. I've been to my GP, optomotrist, an opthomalogist and neuro optho. but have yet to have anyone really answer my questions. Mine started when I was getting used to new contacts (which a prior optom. never got right) and wound up going elsewhere along with a location change in which my job which placed me in an environment with constant glare from outside and almost excessive fluoresent lighting inside. Long story short, I had to leave my job a year ago Nov. and have been dealing with this since. I do have high blood pressure which I take medication for but does go up even with meds. but no other symtoms except when I'm tired and my eye aches and I get occasional headaches. The neuro opth. said it was chronic isolated VI nerve palsy and wants a more advanced MRI done. When money is limited and there is no insurance it leaves a lot of time having to wait. Has anyone experienced having high blood pressure problems and been told it could be the reason for the palsy. My husband and I feel there has to be some correlation between all that has happened. I would sure appreciate any feedback because up til now I've found no one who has ever had this problem or knows anyone else that has had it. I need to be able to find work again but drive very little. Before the change in contacts and the new work location I had experienced no problems. I did switch from doing a mini monovision to straight distance but my original doctor never could seem to get the rx right and finally acted like he didn't want to be bothered any longer. Disappointing at best since he's treated our family for 16+ years. Thanks for any feedback!
this site is very useful...
Hats of to site owner.
Have no reflexes at left knee, behind left ankle and none on bottom of left foot. Aching pain from bottom of elbows to wrists.
Lower back ache, stiff neck and neck ache. Walking with alimp on left leg. Blurry vision. Just had MRA and wonder what the doc is looking for.
Just found site - amazing how many have this problem. Headaches for 8 months, er visit, CT scan bood work and now MRI/MRA. My doc is not good a talking so I dont understand. During MRA they said they had to do it again because I moved.. well infact I never moved a muscle hardly was breathing.. so results say: (EXTRACRANIAL MRA)MILDLY IRREGULAR CONTOUR OF THE COMMON CAROTID ARTERIES BILATERALLY (INTRACRANIAL MRA) LARGE LEFT POSTERIOR COMMUNICATING ARTERY. I sure wish someone could explain this to me. Above I read Jackie's message sounded alot like mine.. Jackie what was your diagnosis?
so doc has requested a Spinal tap..said I needed to have it done this week, also on vitamin D, told to quit all caffine, diet to lose some weight, and ordering me a special eye exam (already see specialist and am diabetic so keep up on this one)
Any information would help.. I'm so tired and sluggish all the time.. I can barely get out of bed.. and taking all these meds has serious affects for gastro issues.
I take metformin, 2 BP meds, vit D, cholesterol med, PLUS going threw Menopause.
thanks for reading.. and any response is appreciated as I am at a breaking point and am desparate, thanks
Collapsed with no warning while working, started convulsing, bit my toungue. dont remember anything till I awoke in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. Catscan done, bloodwork (twice) and an IV with potassium in the ER. Have since had an EEG and MRI. Will meet with Nuerologist tomorrow to find out results. May need to go for MRA according to my regular doctor. Said something about Micro Ischemia. Occasionally (twice in two weeks) get stabbing sharp electrical like pain in left forehead. Anyone else have these symptoms?
Great Blog, glad I found it.. Thanks.
I've had pain in the back of my head that feels as if someone took a baseball bat and whacked me. I also have a stiff neck that hurts all day everyday and feels like my head is too heavy to support it. I've had this pain for 5 weeks now with no releif. I've also had pain in my lower spine. That pain has been on and off for about 18 months. It hurts mostly at night. I've had a ct scan of my brain, which was normal. MRI/MRA of brain, and neck, which was normal. I'm seeking a 2nd opinion May 25th from another neurologist. Right now my diagnosis is complicated migraines? I have tingling in my hands, feet, and lips. The pain in my head and neck is like nothing I have ever experienced.
The MRI/MRA lasted 35 min total. 25 min for MRI and 10 min for MRA. I would suggest no headphones. The music was too loud. Unless the sound of the machine will freak you out. You can still hear it over the loud headphones. Ask for ear plugs. They put a cloth over my eyes, so it's dark. I would suggest, thinking of something pleasant other than what is going on at that moment. The first 2-3 minutes, I went into panic and almost pushed the button, but quickly reminded myself that I needed this test to help figure out why I had so much pain. It goes by quick. They pulled me out, after the MRI and injected the dye for MRA. Just remember to breath slow. Think happy thoughts. RELAX!
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i had a couple of tia's a few years ago. and i had a car accident a year and a half ago. that accident showed i had a small brain bleed. i get a headache everyday. they vary in length of time. i also get horrible migrains. i am nauseaus and dizzy every day. i get dizzy and my head hurts when bright light are blinking. i cant hardly walk on textured flooring or crazy patterns on floor or carpet without getting dizzy, nauseaus, and a horrible headache. i have to get a mri/mra later this week. anybody have of these same symptons? HELP PLEASE
I am having very sharo pain in my head, the pain is very much like some one stabbing more than one area with a sharp pin point lasting a few seconds, Have this happen two or three times a month, feeling some what disorented for a second or two. Wonfering about a MRI .
hi my name is cheryle and my 27 year old daugter has been having the most dreadfull pains in her head. it starts in the head goes down her neck and accross her shoulders,she also gets dizzy and vomits. she has been in hospital twice in the last 3 months.lumbar tests and ct coame back neg. she went to optitions who saw pappal odema behind central vision. have been to a neurologist last week who has now ordered an MRI of the Brain an MRA and an MRV this week.she said it is the worst pain ever even worse that childberth and she gets these pains almost every day !!!! i am very worried for her can anyone help to explain what and why these tests are needed. i have never seen her in soo much pain it is heartbreaking :(
i fell a month and half ago , i have headaches .it will be around a 4 but always pressure and sometimes burning along the right side of my head, the neurologist said that my neck is swollen and tight, i am doing exercises for that. but i get sick to my stomach and dizzy, at times my pressure will go to a 9... i have had MRI< EEG, now they are sending me today for a MRA the doctor said he sees no signs from other tests that is causing this pain... i feel at work and hit my head first on cement, than my back and legs, i went backward, knock me out,oh i have had cat scan too. anyone have any ideas??? i am sick everyday, i am emotional (sad to mad quickly) i can't remember how many times i have smile, i don't drive because when i did i vomit, and had to have someone come get me. this stuff is real to me and a lot of people don't understand... my doctor thinks i can go back to work as a sewer with ear plugs, it is the motion basically that enhance the pain loudness too. if only i wouldn't of fallen i am only 52 and i hate sitting home, please any ideas on how to fix this,
Hi I'am 37years of age and a male and a Type 1 diabetic and since the beginning of the year I'am getting these very very terouble headaches, sore eyes,vimiting, lost of direction, lost of memory, struggle to get my chin to my chest and can't pull my head back all to sore and I can't walk or talk to fast and for at leats 2-4 days it carrys on then it starts going away slowely. But now after the lats seizure I hade I have constent headache & sore eyes went to get a CT and the dr says nothing to worry about he thinks it's just migraines but I don't feel happy with his answer and we are still waiting for the results of the CT to get back. Any idees should I be worried?
Got the results back but the Dr says it's only bad migraine attacks but we have been on the net 24/7 about this and have been chatting with on line Dr's and they all say it could be very much be a brain tumer and that a CT does not pick small tumers up only bigger ones so it looks like I will be goinging for a MRI & a EEG to find - out what the heck is wrong,wish me luck will be back soon.
I received an MRA of my brain in order to possibly diagnose an aneurysm or stroke. (For my anxiety disorder.) My symptoms have lasted 6 years and I've had pressure behind my right eye, weird facial sensations, weird brain sensations, and very bad creativity attacks / super empathizing w/ my surroundings. I will find the results tomorrow, but the test took 10 minutes on an open machine with no contrast. The sound was rather soothing, like a motorcycle idling and a kick drum piercing it rythmatically. On a scale of 1-10 uncomfortable wise, it was a 2. The MRI of my brain that was somewhere from 20-45 minutes and got an 7-10. My 10 second CT of my sinuses was 0-10, and my front orbitals MRI was 7-10 (long duration). I refused any closed mri's and I hope this lends insight. I was so nervous of exposure, but I believe MRI to be a god sent technology that truly doesn't have much side effect and is very very very very efficiently practical. Cheers to MRI'S! And matt hoffman pro bmx rider has had over 150 MRI's and is still very healthy and strong. I think it's safe to say a handful of images is fine.
Due to severe headaches, I had an open MRI 2 months ago and white matter disease show I'm 38 yrs so more test were order. I had 4 test today and MRA of head, MRI of brain, MRI of eyes orbits, and MRI of spinal and took 3 hrs.
It has extremely tiring and sound was terrible loud..
I was so tired after and dizzi and I felt my head very heavy. But other than no more symptoms. Now I hope the results are good....
I am writting concerning my husband. My husband was told a few months ago by a neurologist he has had 3 mini strokes. we just went to another neuro specialist who has ordered for more tests bc he believes it some thing else. he said something like deimagination. he had an accent that was hard for me to catch exactly, but that is what it sounded like. I have tried to find info on it and cant find anything. Any ideas about what deimagination is?
thanks
My Names is Wanda a fit 66 yr. old.. Hit my head on the trunk of the car a month ago, had to see the dr. due for update and to schudle, a Mamamogram, too told him about my head/headaches so he said he would order a CT Scan, whih I had last week, results There is some vascular calcication noted in both cavernous carotid arteries including a 6x4mm, crescent-shaped, rather focal/dense area of calcication @ the posterior aspect of the left cavernous carotid artery, He said had nothing to do with the headaches. The he order blood drawn, & MRI, went to get it done today, & after my blood, was called in to re-reg. because a MRA was also order. I'm a little nerves, would like to hear what it is, so we can take care of it. It's the headaches I hate, & I do have a high pain level. Thanks for having this sight ..
For about 6 wks I,ve been having terrible pressure in the top of my head and ringing in my head like no one would believe, The headaches are terrible ,I had a blood clot on my brain that burst and caused a stroke which I was very lucky it left me with very little damage, I had an MRI & MRA this week and just waiting to see my neurologist. What do you think they are looking for? I pray its not another aneurysm on my brain because where the other one was it was inoperable,
I have CDH for over 12 years. Most of the time they start after being horizontal for a couple of hours. Headache wakes me up every morning between 4 and 5pm. I can't be horizontal for more than 5-6 hours.Laying down while watching TV is out of the question. I have had MRIs and CT Scans with no diagnosis. The only medications that work are prescription Triptans like Zomig, Maxalt, etc. which are very expensive at $28 per pill. Does anyone know if an MRA would find something that the other tests couldn't?
Thanks for your comments.
I was attacked/assaulted and beaten severely by a women on meth. She hit me over and over in my head with her fists (about 25-30 times) This has left me with headaches. I was sent for an MRI and was just now called to come have a MRA since I now have a slight brain aneurysm. Not sure what Im in store for now...
I had an MRA done last week, it lasted 40 minutes.
My doctor said that they found white matter on my brain and now I need to go see a neurologist about the results but can't get in for 4 weeks.
I'm worried because the exam was requested in the first place because I have had a loss of vision in both eyes and found swelling if the nerve in my left eye.
Should I be worried that I am just sitting here with headaches, loss if vision and sometimes I lose my balance waiting for a neurologists appointment?
I was told that I have an aneurysm behind my lest ear last year May 2012. I have to get another MRA tomorrow evening and I am scared out of my mind. I am stressed out. My Dr. Thinks it might be nothing. It was lmm last may. I hope all is good. I panic easily. I am also clostrophobic.