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Is it useful to get a brain scan if you have Lyme?

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Posted 8/6/2014 3:46 PM (GMT 0)
Hello,
I have recently been diagnosed with late-stage Lyme disease.
My family doctor (who does not yet know about the Lyme diagnosis made by my Naturopath) has offered to order an MRI brain scan to check for abnormalities. She says that it's entirely my choice whether I get it done. Part of me wants to have the MRI done, but I'm scared that it could cause damage to my brain in some way. I've read on some websites that it might have harmful effects.
Have any of you had a brain scan? Was it worth it?
Thank you,
Mangaka
Posted 8/6/2014 3:58 PM (GMT 0)
I have had both an MRI and a SPECT scan. MRI showed nothing, but SPECT showed damage typical of Lyme infection. Both test are pretty costly. If you have already been diagnosed, I suggest that you spend your resources on treatment.
Posted 8/6/2014 4:06 PM (GMT 0)
Both my LLMD and psych/lyme specialist (one of the top in the country, ex-pres. of ILADS), told me that they will not shed light on anything already known. My proponents of the scans scare me and make me think that I am missing something for my son and the scans are critical, but these doctors have treated for
35 and 42 years respectively, so I feel like I should trust them. It is pricy and so much is already going to dr.s that don't take our ins. and meds and herbs that are costly but healing.
Posted 8/6/2014 4:14 PM (GMT 0)
I had one done, and it came back fine...gave me peace of mind though. I think MRI'S are one of the safest tests because it uses mostly magnets. I'm sure the dye isn't good, but not all MRI'S have to be done with it. You can see some things better with the dye I believe, but it's not mandatory. Someone please correct me if I'm wrong with any of that though.

Plus I had strong, long lasting headaches for 6 years, and during the week following the MRI I noticed I wasn't getting them anymore.

Mentioned it to one of my Dr.'s, and said I don't know if the dye, or whatever it was flushed something from my brain...She said nope it was probably the strong magnet. Haven't had a bad headache since.
Posted 8/6/2014 9:34 PM (GMT 0)
Hi,
Thanks for your replies. I should clarify that when I asked if it was "worth it" to get an MRI, I meant if it was worth the potential health risks, not the cost. I would be able to get the MRI for free, since my medical family doctor could order it in Canada.
It's amazing how your bad headaches went away like that, Sooverthis!
Mangaka
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