Multiple Sclerosis: What it is and How it Can be Diagnosed

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable and potentially disabling autoimmune disease that develops over time, which in past years has made it difficult to diagnose definitively. In recent years, however, the MRI has revolutionized the way MS is detected.

If you think you may have MS, we at Upright MRI of Deerfield want you to know you don’t have to face it alone. Although it may seem scary, getting the correct diagnosis can give you peace of mind and improve treatment success. Our MRI is considered the most patient-friendly in the world, and we are ready to help. See below for ways to get in contact.

What is MS?

What is the cause?

How does the MRI detect MS?

The Upright MRI advantage

It is a truly open MRI: Traditional MRI machines often feel claustrophobic because they completely enclose you in a tunnel-like machine that is described as loud and frightening. Our MRI is different. Because there is nothing in front of our patients to block their vision, our patients have said they feel less claustrophobic and comfortable than in traditional MRI or other MRIs that claim to be open but are still partially enclosed. Patients can sit, stand, lay or bend comfortably and watch the TV in front of them. 

More quiet: Traditional MRI sounds are described as “loud banging trash cans” which can be a pretty unpleasant and frightening experience for patients. At Upright MRI of Deerfield, ours is significantly quieter than traditional magnetic imaging scanners – all you hear is some low, rumbling noises. Additionally, our patients have access to a headset where they can talk to our technicians if they need anything while being scanned. 

Multi-position: Although this particular MRI scanner is often recognized for its patient-friendly experience, the fact that it can scan patients is a significant advantage it has over other MRIs. Our MRI has the ability to scan patients in any position: sitting down, standing up, lying down, or bending. This is not only more comfortable for patients, but helps doctors gain a better understanding of the issue at hand because the MRI can zero in on the body part. 

Better images: Because we can scan patients in any position, it allows for the production of more specific, better quality images that help doctors visualize the matter at hand more clearly. 

More accuracy: Because the images are clearer and more specific, the accuracy of the diagnosis becomes more evident. The accuracy of the diagnosis is what truly matters at the end of the day, as we want to send our patients home with a clear understanding of what’s happening in their body and what next steps are.

Schedule your visit at Upright MRI of Deerfield