Understanding My Son's MRI Experience and Vision Disturbances
My ten-year-old son recently underwent an MRI scan due to what we suspect might be migraine attacks accompanied by aura. Not long into the procedure, I noticed his eyes exhibiting unusual behavior, opening wide then partially closing, and shifting back and forth before crossing over. He reported experiencing a sensation of double vision and perceiving various colors. At this point, the technician decided to pause the imaging process. I have already informed his pediatrician about this incident, and we have been directed to a neurologist for further evaluation. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has insights into this situation. I researched peripheral nervous system reactions during MRI scans, but I haven’t encountered any specific information regarding symptoms like crossed eyes or double vision. During these episodes, he describes his aura as seeing red; everything white appears tinged with a reddish hue, particularly in one eye, while the pain in his head radiates to the opposite area. This pattern of symptoms has been present for the past two years. What could have triggered this response during the MRI? I was present in the scanning room and received no guidance on how to assist him. To provide reassurance, I had my hand resting on his leg, which was covered by pants—could this have had any influence? Additionally, I wonder if a bobby pin I neglected to remove might have played a role. Is it possible that these symptoms are indicative of an underlying issue that was exacerbated during the MRI?
Answers (1)
9/2/2025, 3:30:56 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your son's experience during the MRI and the symptoms he described. The unusual eye movements and double vision he experienced, particularly during an MRI that involved scanning the brain, may relate to his migraine aura, which can include visual disturbances.
Explanation
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Migraine Aura: Many individuals who suffer from migraines experience aura, which may involve visual phenomena like seeing colors, distortions, or even double vision prior to the onset of pain. The symptoms you described, such as seeing everything white as tinged with red, fit this pattern. These visual disturbances can occur in the absence or presence of pain and can vary in intensity.
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MRI Environment: An MRI scan itself typically shouldn't trigger abnormal neurological responses. However, if your son was anxious or uncomfortable being in the machine, that could exacerbate migraine symptoms or aura phenomena. The flashing lights and sounds of the MRI machine may also be disorienting for someone prone to migraines.
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Eye Movements: The wide opening and crossing of the eyes could be involuntary responses that sometimes accompany intense visual sensations, such as those experienced during aura episodes.
Next Steps
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Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your son's episodes, including the duration, intensity, specific visual changes, and any associated headache pain. This documentation can be very helpful for the neurologist.
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Avoid Triggers: Help your son identify and avoid potential migraine triggers, such as bright lights, stress, or certain foods. Migraine prevention can sometimes require a multifaceted approach.
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Consult with the Neurologist: Since you have already been directed to a neurologist, bring all records, including MRI observations and the symptom diary. They may recommend further tests or treatments based on his symptoms and history.
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Reassure Your Son: While waiting for further evaluation, continue to reassure your son that he is not alone in this experience and that there are ways to manage migraines and their associated symptoms.
It’s essential to address these symptoms with a healthcare professional, as they can determine if further investigation is needed to rule out other conditions. Keeping an open line of communication with both your son and his healthcare team is crucial as you navigate this process together. If any new or concerning symptoms arise, please report them promptly.
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