Effects of MRI on tinnitus

I feel the same way. I am convinced my initial tinnitus (before loud music made it worse) was caused by a brain MRI. I don't know if the effect is different for different parts of the body.

I can't do contrast either so CT and MRI aren't always that helpful anyway for what I need to have checked.

This is really a personal choice in my view, depending on the benefit/risk ratio so to speak. I will do an MRI to save my life but have declined one in my neck. My doctor understands. If surgery is imminent, or possible, an MRI may be needed. Can an ultrasound be used?

I would probably consent to an MRI if it wasn’t my head or neck. Like you, I believe tinnitus, and also for me, hyperacusis, began after an MRI of my head and neck , without properly fitted hearing protection.
If you absolutely must have the procedure good ear protection is a must. Sadly this is not always adequately provided when the procedure is done. It seems insane that this is not widely known, but it isn’t. You must look out for yourself if you can. I had never had the procedure and had no idea it would be such an assault on my senses. I have been paying that price for a couple years.
I so wish I had not consented to the scan.

@dloos I also have hyperacusis. I just moved into a place with a neighbor's air conditioner making a pulsating hum and can't sleep. It is so loud for me but my visiting daughter says she can barely hear it. This is a revelation to me!

Thanks for your response, windyshores. I will ask if an ultrasound can be a substitute for the MRI. I have been researching and believe an open MRI exam would be better for one than a closed one. More space for the sound to escape. I just wasn't ready for the assault on my tinnitus. Interestingly enough, the tech at the MRI was not too concerned about me having tinnitus; she said they don't allow one to bring their own soundproofing headphones due to interference with the magnets, and all they offer are foam earplugs. Meh!

I commented to windyshores about the open MRI as an alternative to a closed one, but when I called the open MRI lab, the tech said she didn't even know what decibels the MRI was...I don't understand why none of the techs are in the least concerned with the hearing issues of their patients and what effect an MRI may have on them. I am thinking about calling the head of our local hospital and asking for them to purchase an MRI approved set of headphones for their patients. I saw them on Amazon.

@janieben good idea!

janieben
Taking your own ear protection is a great idea. It’s what I would do if I really had to have another.
I agree that the techs seem to be very poorly trained to be operating such equipment.

Maybe we just had bad luck and it isn’t widespread.
Anyway, as always you have to look out for yourself.
A difficult thing when you are ill!

MRI's are often discussed on tinnitus forums!

Yes. Which makes it doubly infuriating that techs aren’t trained in the dangers!
You go in sick and come out with a new problem.

It is the oddest condition. I have lost hearing, yet have super-human hearing for what I DON’T want to hear. I’m constantly jumping out of my skin from closing doors, barking dogs etc. In addition I have tinnitus.

Hearing is so complex. I have seen eight ENTs, plus numerous audiologists. Very little help from anyone.