Understanding My MRI Results
Hello everyone. I'm a 28-year-old woman who recently experienced a non-epileptic seizure. Since that incident, I have been dealing with tremors, migraines, and involuntary jerking throughout my body. The only other neurological condition I've been diagnosed with is Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis. Last night, I underwent an MRI, and I received the summary this morning. To be honest, I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed and confused about what these results mean in relation to Multiple Sclerosis (MS). All the findings appeared normal, save for this specific detail: "There are scattered areas showing hyperintense T2/FLAIR signals in the periventricular and subcortical white matter of the frontal lobes." Additionally, I have braces, which led to this note being included in the report: "Extensive metallic artifact is present, negatively impacting several imaging sequences, including diffusion-weighted images. Therefore, a thorough assessment for restricted diffusion is not possible." Just to provide more context, I do not smoke, and my symptoms have persisted for over a month. My current medications include Wellbutrin, Venlafaxine, and Keveyis. I stand at 5 feet 5 inches tall and weigh 210 pounds.
Answers (1)
2/4/2026, 9:00:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed after receiving MRI results, especially when dealing with unusual symptoms and conditions like non-epileptic seizures and Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis. The mention of hyperintense T2/FLAIR signals can be concerning, but it's important to recognize what this means and how it relates to your health.
Main Points:
- Hyperintense T2/FLAIR signals could indicate various conditions, including demyelination (which is seen in MS), but they can also be due to other factors such as migraines or even benign conditions.
- Metallic artifacts from braces can interfere with MRI clarity, complicating the interpretation.
- Your current symptoms should be monitored closely, as they may or may not relate to the MRI findings.
Explanation:
The MRI findings specifically noted “scattered areas showing hyperintense T2/FLAIR signals” in the brain, which can represent changes in white matter. In some cases, these changes may suggest inflammation or prior injury, but they are not definitive for conditions like Multiple Sclerosis on their own; additional tests and clinical correlation are usually necessary to reach a clear diagnosis. The presence of artifacts due to your braces means that some details could be less clear, which also impacts the findings derived from these scans.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including tremors, migraines, and any other occurrences (like your non-epileptic seizures). Note any changes in frequency or severity.
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Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Although you may prefer not to seek immediate help, discussing your MRI results with a neurologist is essential for understanding what these findings specifically mean for you. They can help clarify the significance of the hyperintense areas and discuss any necessary follow-up tests or management strategies.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: To manage symptoms like migraines, consider:
- Staying well-hydrated and avoiding potential triggers (like certain foods, stress, and irregular sleep).
- Engaging in relaxation techniques or coping strategies, which might help with both tremors and anxiety stemming from your symptoms.
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Stay Informed and Empowered: Learn more about your conditions and potential treatments. Understanding your health can help reduce anxiety regarding your symptoms and MRI findings.
Reassurance:
Your feelings of uncertainty are valid, especially when navigating complex medical information. Take one step at a time, and remember that you are not alone in this process. You can seek information and ask questions as you move forward to ensure you feel supported and informed. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to ask!
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