Can You Swallow Saliva During An MRI?

MRI is a non-invasive scanning method used to click fine-grained pictures of the body’s inside organs. It is frequently used to diagnose several illnesses, such as musculoskeletal ailments, spinal problems, and brain disorders. 

However, many people are worried about how they should act during an MRI scan, particularly bodily processes like swallowing saliva.

So, the question arises – ‘Can you swallow saliva during an MRI?’

Read up to know everything about swallowing saliva during this scan!

Why Can It Be Concerning To Swallow Saliva During An MRI?

Patients frequently worry about their ability to swallow saliva during the treatment. Swallowing is one example of excessive or sudden motion that could affect image quality because MRI scans require little movement to provide clear and accurate images.

Let’s look at the effects swallowing saliva has on MRI scans:

1. Motion Artefacts: When swallowing, the tongue, throat, and the head move. This can cause blurry images, particularly in scans concentrating on the head, neck, or spine.

2. Brain and Neck MRI Distortion: Swallowing may create soft tissue movements that result in distorted final results if an MRI is taking pictures of the brain or throat.

3. Effect on Image Quality: Due to the extreme sensitivity of certain MRI sequences to movement, even minor movements, such as swallowing, may necessitate repeat scans, extending the scan time.

Can You Swallow Saliva During An MRI?

Saliva can be swallowed during an MRI, but it’s preferable to do so carefully to reduce motion. Since swallowing is a normal reflex, radiologists and technologists typically know how to help patients manage it.

Here are some advice on our help that can help you control swallowing saliva during your MRI scan: 

1. Swallow Between Sequences: Multiple imaging sequences, frequently lasting a few minutes each, make up an MRI scan. When there are short pauses between sequences, technicians may let you know so you can easily swallow.

2. Concentrate on Controlled Breathing: You can resist the impulse to swallow too much by deep, steady breathing.

3. Hold Your Head Still: Avoid moving your head or neck during swallowing if required.

4. Talk with the Technician: Let the MRI technician know beforehand if you are concerned about excessive swallowing. Throughout the process, they can offer you support and direction.

5. Drink Plenty of Water Before the Scan: Dehydration might cause thicker saliva, increasing the frequency and visibility of swallowing. The impulse to consume too much may be lessened if you drink adequate water before the scan.

With these tips in mind, you can experience a seamless MRI scan that will lower your temptation and need to gulp your saliva during the procedure.

What Happens If You Cannot Control Your Swallowing?

Some patients may have trouble controlling their swallowing reflexes, particularly those who suffer from anxiety or dry mouth. In these situations:

• The technician might provide a tiny pillow or wedge to minimise movement and support your head.

• To help divert attention from the temptation to swallow, several MRI centres permit using headphones to play relaxing music.

Before the scan, patients with illnesses that impact swallowing, such as dysphagia, should let their doctor know.

How To Control Swallowing Saliva During An MRI?

It can be challenging to control swallowing because it is a reflex, particularly while being motionless for a long time. You can, however, teach yourself to swallow less often during an MRI by using these strategies:

• Before the scan, try to be mindful of your swallowing reflex and intentionally slow it down.

• Before the MRI, make sure you’re properly hydrated. This will help you avoid swallowing as much because of a dry mouth.

• Employ saliva swallowing techniques. Some individuals find that the need to swallow can be lessened by focusing on calm breathing or tilting their tongue forward.

• Suck on ice chips before the scan. To temporarily numb the throat and lessen the impulse to swallow, some radiologists advise sucking on ice chips before the MRI.

Patients can reduce movement during MRI scans and guarantee clearer imaging results by being aware of the physiology of swallowing and employing controlled procedures!

If these don’t work, feel free to reach out to your MRI technician for assistance.

Conclusion:

Although it is a common concern, as long as it is done carefully, swallowing saliva during an MRI is typically not a serious problem. You can ensure a successful and seamless MRI procedure without sacrificing image quality by adhering to our advice.

Do you require an MRI scan? Visit mrichandigarh.com today!

At MRI Chandigarh, we offer patient-friendly care with cutting-edge 3T MRI scans performed by skilled radiologists. Our state-of-the-art imaging technology guarantees excellent outcomes with less discomfort. 

Make an appointment for an MRI today to take advantage of top-notch diagnostic services.

FAQs for Can You Swallow Saliva During An MRI?

1. Will my MRI be ruined if I swallow?

Particularly in head and neck scans, swallowing can result in slight motion artefacts. However, it is unlikely to entirely disrupt the scan if you swallow properly and move as little as possible.

2. What happens if I have frequent urges to swallow throughout the MRI?

When movement is less important, try to swallow in between imaging sequences. Tell the technician if the urge continues. They might offer advice or permit brief breaks.

3. Can I lessen my need to swallow by drinking water before my MRI?

Yes! Drinking enough water before the scan might assist in avoiding excessive salivation, which will lessen the frequency of swallowing.

4. During an MRI, is it preferable to completely restrict swallowing?

No, prolonged suppression of swallowing can cause discomfort. Rather, try swallowing as softly as you can without turning your head.

5. What occurs if I accidentally make too much movement when swallowing?

The technician may need to rerun the impacted photographs if there is a lot of movement. However, sophisticated imaging software is frequently used to correct small movements.

6. Will I swallow more frequently throughout the MRI if I’m anxious?

Yes, excessive swallowing can result from anxiousness. This reflex can be lessened by doing relaxation exercises like deep breathing or relaxing music.

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