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
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Related Questions
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation and Thyroid Issues: Variability in Cardioversion Decisions
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for guidance regarding my mother’s current health situation, and I’d greatly appreciate any shared experiences or thoughts. **My mother's background:** - **Age**: 55 years - **Weight**: Recently dropped to 116 kg from 118 kg in just two days, likely due to diuretics. - **Health history**: Previously an underactive thyroid, undiagnosed and untreated, now presenting as overactive. - **Medications**: Currently taking thyroid medication and a beta-blocker (Rapiblock). **Current health status:** My mother has been hospitalized since Tuesday, experiencing **atrial fibrillation with heart rates exceeding 200** beats per minute due to her thyroid's hyperactivity. - The plan for cardioversion was initially settled on Tuesday. However, the following day, the medical team advised postponing it until her thyroid levels could be stabilized, believing that her heart rate would return to normal once her thyroid condition was managed. - Her **obesity** precludes her from undergoing a transthoracic echocardiogram, and due to her thyroid concerns, she cannot handle contrast dye (this has been a consistent issue for over four years). Therefore, the only feasible option was a **transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)**, which has yet to be performed. - She has been prescribed various medications including beta-blockers and thyroid treatments in the past. - On Friday, a doctor proposed proceeding with cardioversion; however, the attending senior physician objected. - Today (Saturday), another clinician has expressed a desire to move forward with cardioversion, having initiated a new medication, as the senior physician is unavailable. - **Communication has been unclear**, as we were notified of developments by a nurse rather than the physician in charge, causing confusion and anxiety. - Currently, only a **chest X-ray** is scheduled, and the TEE remains unaddressed. **My inquiries are as follows:** 1. Is it common for medical professionals to have varying opinions and frequently revise medication or treatment plans like cardioversion? 2. Is it safe to conduct cardioversion in the absence of a TEE? I presumed that this was a standard procedure to exclude the presence of blood clots. 3. Is it usual practice to have only a chest X-ray prior to moving ahead with cardioversion? 4. How typical is it for patients or their families to not be directly informed about treatment changes and learn about them through nursing staff instead? I recognize that this cannot substitute for professional medical advice. I’m simply trying to discern whether these circumstances are typical or if we should express our concerns more assertively with the healthcare facility. Thank you for your insights!
28-Year-Old Male Experiencing Scalp Sensations Post-Amitriptyline Treatment
I am a 28-year-old man in generally good health, without any cardiac concerns. Approximately a month ago, I encountered intense pain localized to one side of my head, which was unresponsive to paracetamol. However, a single dose of a migraine treatment provided substantial relief. Following that, I began a regimen of amitriptyline, starting at a nightly dose of 10 to 25 mg. While my head pain has diminished significantly—by about 90 to 95%—I now experience occasional uncomfortable sensations on my scalp. These feelings include pins and needles, a cooling sensation, and some crawling feelings near my hairline and ears. There are fleeting moments where I feel brief throbs lasting a second, but I do not have any persistent headaches. To clarify, I do not experience any of the following: - Nausea - Weakness in my limbs - Numbness - Changes in my vision - Coordination difficulties - Seizures The symptoms I have are transient, shifting around and often intensifying when I become conscious of them or as the day progresses. I would like to know: Is it common to experience these sensations during the recovery stage following episodes of neuralgia or migraine-like discomfort? Additionally, could the amitriptyline potentially be causing these temporary paresthetic sensations? I am seeking some reassurance or advice on what is typically observed during this healing process. Thank you.
7-Month-Old Child with Abernethy Malformation - Exploring Treatment Options
# 7-Month-Old Child with Abernethy Malformation - Exploring Treatment Options ## [7-Month-Old] Identified with Abernethy Malformation (Congenital Portosystemic Shunt) - Treatment Methods? **Age:** 7 months **Gender:** Female **Height:** Age-appropriate **Weight:** Currently 9 kg, was 2.8 kg at birth **Ethnicity:** Asian **Duration of Symptoms:** Present since birth **Location:** Uzbekistan **Pre-existing Health Issues:** Abernethy malformation (congenital portosystemic shunt), liver hemangiomas, chronic jaundice, anemia **Current Treatments:** Supportive management --- ## INITIAL PRESENTATION (June 2025 - July 2025) Our daughter arrived on **June 27, 2025**, presenting with: - Birth weight: **2.8 kg** - Marked jaundice (yellowing of skin and sclera) - Pale or clay-colored stools - **Bilirubin level: 245 μmol/L** (typically <20) An immediate ultrasound indicated multiple liver anomalies, initially thought to be hemangiomas. --- ## FIRST COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT (August 1, 2025 - 1 Month Old) ### Multislice Computed Tomography (MSCT) with 3-Phase Contrast (August 1, 2025): **RESULTS:** - **Portocaval shunt size: 9.9 mm** (blood bypassing the liver into the inferior vena cava) - **Arteriovenous shunt size: 4.4 mm** - **Portal vein size: 6.1 mm** (patent) - **Three nodular cystic lesions** located in the perivascular area, with largest measuring 11.6×20.7 mm, enhancing during the venous phase - Liver features a heterogeneous architecture, exhibiting irregular enhancement - Gallbladder appears elongated and slightly enlarged - Other abdominal organs exhibit normal findings **RADIOLOGIST’S ASSESSMENT:** "Congenital portosystemic shunt indicative of Abernethy malformation; less likely arteriovenous malformation (AVM); cannot dismiss the possibility of localized liver lesions." **ADVICE:** Seek consultations with an abdominal and vascular surgeon. ### Blood Tests (August 1, 2025): **Complete Blood Count:** - WBC: 10.44 × 10⁹/L (normal range) - **RBC: 2.1 × 10¹²/L** (LOW - indicating severe anemia) - **Hemoglobin: 69 g/L** (CRITICALLY LOW; normal is 117-166) - Platelets: 403 × 10⁹/L (elevated) **Biochemistry Analysis:** - Urea: 1.80 mmol/L (normal) - Creatinine: 33.4 μmol/L (normal) - **ALT: >1000 IU/mL** (EXTREMELY HIGH - severe liver dysfunction) --- ## FOLLOW-UP IMAGING (December 16, 2025 - 5.5 Months Old) ### Liver Ultrasound: **RESULTS:** - Right lobe: 64 mm, left lobe: 43 mm - Liver capsule appears irregular and vague - **Parenchyma: heterogeneous, showing 7 hypo-isoechoic nodules** (sizes range from 11.5×10.7 mm to 17.6×15.4 mm) - Capsule features uneven contours - Blood flow noted during Doppler examination - No dilation in intrahepatic bile ducts - **Portal vein: 3.9 mm** (decreased from 6.1 mm - indicating improvement) - Common bile duct: 1.4 mm - Gallbladder: measures 43.7×9.2 mm (pear-shaped, wall thickness 2.0 mm, homogeneous, free of stones) **ULTRASOUND ASSESSMENT:** "Presence of liver volumetric formations (specifically liver hemangiomas)." --- ## LATEST MSCT (February 6, 2026 - 7 Months Old) ### MSCT with 3-Phase Contrast: **FINDINGS:** - Liver remains normal in size, but shows heterogeneous structure with uneven contrast enhancement - **Portocaval shunt: 9.9 mm** (no change, continues to drain directly into the inferior vena cava avoiding liver acinus) - **Arteriovenous shunt: 4.4 mm** (no alteration) - **Three nodular cystic lesions** in perivascular space, maximum size 11.6×20.7 mm, enhancing in the venous phase - **Portal vein: 6.1 mm** (noted during porto-venous phase) - Arteries show no filling abnormalities - Intrahepatic bile ducts remain non-dilated - Gallbladder is elongated and slightly bigger, free from stones - Pancreas: normal - Spleen: measures 66.9×38.5 mm (not enlarged), splenic vein is 3.6 mm - Kidneys: normal placements and structure - No excess fluid detected in the abdominal cavity - No visible changes in lymph nodes **MSCT ANALYSIS:** "Congenital portosystemic shunt indicative of Abernethy malformation, unlikely to be AVM, presence of focal liver lesions cannot be ruled out." **RECOMMENDATION:** Engage with an abdominal and vascular surgeon. --- ## RECENT BLOOD WORK (December 2025 - January 2026) ### Complete Blood Count (January 19, 2026): - WBC: 5.8 × 10⁹/L (SHOWS IMPROVEMENT) - **RBC: 2.93 × 10¹²/L** (IMPROVED but still low) - **Hemoglobin: 72 g/L** (SHOWS IMPROVEMENT but still low) - Platelets: 223 × 10⁹/L (BACK TO NORMAL) - Neutrophils: 30.0% - Lymphocytes: 64.8% - Monocytes: 4.6% ### Biochemistry (January 28, 2026): - Total protein level: 67 g/L (slightly deficient) - Creatinine: 20.7 μmol/L - **Total Bilirubin: 242 μmol/L** (STILL HIGH - unchanged) - **Direct Bilirubin: 142 μmol/L** (VERY HIGH) - **ALT: 50 IU/mL** (DRASTICALLY LOWER from >1000!) --- ## OVERVIEW OF PROGRESS OVER 6 MONTHS | Parameter | August 2025 | January 2026 | Change | |------------------|-------------|---------------|--------------------------| | **Hemoglobin** | 69 g/L | 72 g/L | ↗ Slight improvement | | **RBC** | 2.1 | 2.93 | ↗ Improved | | **ALT** | >1000 | 50 | ✓✓ MAJOR IMPROVEMENT | | **Bilirubin** | 245 | 242 | → Unchanged (still elevated) | | **Portal vein** | 6.1 mm | 3.9 mm (US) | ↗ Decreased | | **Platelets** | 403 | 223 | ↘ Normalized | | **Shunt size** | 9.9 mm | 9.9 mm | → No Change | --- ## CURRENT SITUATION (February 2026 - 7 Months Old) - **Weight:** 9 kg (good growth rate in spite of condition) - **Jaundice:** Continues to be present (yellow skin) - **Stools:** Remain pale/clay-colored - **Development:** Achieving appropriate milestones - **Energy:** Appears to have a good energy level - **Feeding:** Normal appetite --- ## QUESTIONS FOR r/AskDocs We have been informed this is **Type 2 Abernethy malformation** (portal vein present). **Three treatment avenues have been proposed:** ### Option 1: **Endovascular Coil Embolization** (minimally invasive approach) - A catheter is inserted via the leg vein to access the shunt and deploy coils/plugs to close the abnormal vessels - Pros: No surgical incision, minimal discomfort, short hospital stay (2-4 days), no scars, enhanced safety - Duration: 1-2 hours - Recovery: 2-4 weeks for jaundice to show improvement ### Option 2: **Open Surgical Intervention** - An incision in the abdomen to ligate abnormal vessels and redirect blood to the liver - Pros: Direct visualization, effective results - Cons: Surgical scar, longer recovery time (7-14 days in hospital) - Duration: 2-4 hours ### Option 3: **Liver Transplantation** - We have been advised this is not necessary as the portal vein is functional and liver health is improving. --- ## SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER: 1. **With a functional portal vein (6.1 mm) and improving liver function (ALT normalized), is it advisable to pursue endovascular closure as the preferred treatment?** 2. **Despite ALT levels improving, the bilirubin remains consistently high (242). Should this be a cause for concern? Is there a prospect for it to normalize post shunt closure?** 3. **Are the hemangiomas/nodules (11.6×20.7 mm) linked to the shunt? Will they likely resolve following shunt repair?** 4. **How urgent is the proposed intervention? Is immediate action required, or is there flexibility to wait a few months?** 5. **What complications should we be vigilant for during the waiting period?** 6. **Regarding endovascular closure - what is the average success rate for infants aged 7 months? Are there concerns regarding the shunt size (9.9 mm)?** 7. **The measurement of the portal vein has shown improvement from 6.1 mm to 3.9 mm; should this be perceived as a positive sign or a reason for concern?** 8. **Are there special directives (diet modifications, medications) we should consider while awaiting the procedure?** 9. **Post-procedure, how long should we expect it might take for:** - Normalization of bilirubin levels? - Return of stool color to normal? - Resolution of jaundice? - Regression of hemangiomas? 10. **Can you recommend any specialized centers for pediatric Abernethy malformation treatments? We are located in Uzbekistan but are prepared to travel (to Turkey, Russia, South Korea, etc.)** --- ## ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - No family history of hepatic diseases - Pregnancy and delivery were normal - No additional congenital defects identified - Immunizations up to date - No history of bleeding disorders - No signs indicative of encephalopathy - Child is alert and engaged --- **I can supply actual MSCT images and comprehensive lab reports if they would be of assistance.** We sincerely appreciate any insights you can provide. We are striving to make the most informed decision regarding our daughter’s care and highly value expert medical opinions. **TL;DR:** 7-month-old diagnosed with Abernethy Type 2 malformation (9.9 mm portocaval shunt, patent portal vein). Liver functionality is improving (normalized ALT) while bilirubin remains elevated (242). Evaluating options between endovascular coil embolization and open surgery. Seeking expert advice on optimal treatment strategy and timing.
Battling Chronic Nausea and Vomiting for Over Two Years
For the past two years, I (age 26, female) have been enduring an incredibly challenging health situation. I experience intense nausea daily and find myself vomiting numerous times, with almost nothing providing relief. To provide some background, I’m from West Texas and I currently weigh around 190 pounds, standing at 5’7”. Initially, my weight was about 211 pounds when these symptoms began, and it fluctuates frequently between 190 and 225 pounds. I engage in vaping and consume THC. Previously diagnosed with hypothyroidism, my condition seemingly resolved, according to my healthcare providers. Additionally, I have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). I have consistently faced irregular bowel movements, with stools that are loose and sometimes appear to have mucus. Compounding my struggles, I've also suffered from migraines. I have had an IUD for over five years, experiencing two insertions of the Kyleena device. In December 2022, my battle with health took a severe turn when I was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, requiring chemotherapy treatment, specifically AVBD (Apologies for not recalling the exact medication names). By July 2023, I had fortunately achieved remission. However, after reaching remission, my vomiting worsened, transforming from primarily white foam to a mixture of 80% bile, any food I attempt to consume, and still white foam. This intense vomiting, accompanied by significant pain in my upper back, escalated to more than eight episodes daily by November 2023. At that time, THC seemed to be the only avenue for me to retain any food. During this tumultuous period, I consulted various doctors who, after confirming I wasn’t pregnant, attributed my symptoms to Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). Immediately, I ceased THC consumption for over six months, yet the vomiting continued unabated. Each time, doctors would prescribe ondansetron, regardless of my claims that it provided no relief. I experimented with various diets recommended by medical professionals, but there were no improvements in my condition. Eventually, I obtained a referral to a gastroenterologist who intended to perform an endoscopy. However, the procedure was prohibitively expensive even with insurance, and thus was never conducted. This doctor also ordered blood tests to rule out several gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn's disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and gluten sensitivity, but all results came back normal. Afterward, I had another appointment with a different gastroenterologist, but the doctor failed to meet with me. Instead, a nurse informed me that the doctor had merely recommended promethazine without conducting any tests or scheduling further visits. When I mentioned the possibility of gallbladder issues, the doctor laughed dismissively at my suggestion. Discussing my situation with my oncologist, he suggested that my heightened sensitivity to food odors stemmed from my chemotherapy experiences while I was working in fast food. While food smells indeed affect me, I'm primarily triggered by medical scents such as rubbing alcohol and cleaning agents. This ongoing ordeal has been overwhelmingly distressing. I now experience episodes of vomiting accompanied by bright red blood, presumably due to a throat tear. When I first encountered this troubling symptom, I consulted a doctor who appeared unfazed and prescribed a promethazine suppository, which does help but makes me extremely drowsy. My nausea persists nearly around the clock, often feeling as if there’s a heaviness in the upper part of my abdomen. I frequent urgent care facilities when my symptoms intensify, only to be met with minimal assistance since this is a chronic issue. Currently, I lack a primary care physician. Whenever I sought one, I encountered skepticism regarding my condition, with some healthcare professionals implying that I was exaggerating my symptoms. Though many physicians who do take my situation seriously seem baffled, I've lost count of the diverse medical experts I've consulted about these ongoing issues. If anyone has insight or suggestions, I would genuinely appreciate it. I can share my latest bloodwork results if that would be helpful—just let me know!
Strange Stomach Sensation Leading to Waking Up
Greetings. I'm a 36-year-old male, standing at 172 centimeters and weighing 90 kilograms. I don't take any medications, nor do I smoke. I've been living with diastasis recti for several years now, and I may also have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, I deal with fatty liver and kidney stones, though I assume these last two conditions are not related to my current concern. Occasionally, I experience a peculiar sensation that jolts me awake; it feels like a quick pulsing in my stomach. I’ve noticed it tends to affect the left side when I’m lying on my left side and the right side when on my right. Remarkably, it can occur even when I’m on my back. This strange feeling often escalates into a surge that fully rouses me. Alongside this, I sometimes feel prickling sensations throughout my body and fleeting lightheadedness. When this sensation disturbs my sleep while I’m turned to my side, shifting onto my back or the opposite side might alleviate it, but not always. In instances where I awaken while lying on my back, I discovered that gently pressing my hands on either side of my stomach can help, as can rising to a sitting or standing position. However, during my last two episodes—one a couple of weeks ago and another tonight—those techniques weren’t effective right away, which made me feel a bit anxious, prompting me to seek advice. Does anyone have insight into what might be going on? By the way, I’ve undergone routine ultrasound examinations of my abdomen by two different physicians during check-ups, both of whom assured me that everything appears normal, including my abdominal aorta and internal organs. They didn’t identify any issues at that time.