Question

A patient in an MRI unit turns his head quickly to one side and experiences momentary dizziness and a strange taste in his mouth. Discuss the possible causes.

a) The patient's reaction is unrelated to the MRI; it may be a psychological response.

b) Rapid head movement induces changes in the vestibular system, leading to dizziness.

c) The strange taste is a side effect of MRI contrast agents.

d) Both a and b.

Answer 1

When a patient experiences dizziness and a strange taste after turning their head quickly in an MRI unit, the possible causes can be a psychological response unrelated to the MRI, rapid head movement affecting the vestibular system, or a side effect of MRI contrast agents. Option d is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient in an MRI unit turns their head quickly to one side and experiences momentary dizziness and a strange taste in their mouth, the possible causes can be discussed as follows:

1. Option a) The patient's reaction is unrelated to the MRI; it may be a psychological response: This could be possible as dizziness and strange tastes can sometimes be caused by stress or anxiety.
2. Option b) Rapid head movement induces changes in the vestibular system, leading to dizziness: The vestibular system in our inner ear helps us maintain balance and orientation. Quick head movements can disrupt the balance signals sent to the brain, resulting in dizziness.
3. Option c) The strange taste is a side effect of MRI contrast agents: Certain contrast agents used in MRIs can cause a metallic taste in the mouth as a side effect.

Based on these options, the correct answer would be d) Both a and b, as both psychological responses and changes in the vestibular system can contribute to the patient's symptoms.