Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a large magnet and radio waves

to look at organs and structures inside your body. Health care

professionals use MRI scans to diagnose a variety of conditions, from torn

ligaments to tumors. But did you know that the Noise from an MRI

machine may cause hearing impairment and or tinnitus?

Twice as Loud as Older MRI Technology

Current state-of-the-art 3T MR scanners are twice as fast and provide

better imaging than older 1.5T MR technology. However, due to the

increased field strength, they are also twice as loud as previous

technology, and noise levels can reach up to 120 dBA equivalent to a loud

rock concert! The use of hearing protection is necessary so that your ears

are not injured during the procedure.

Hearing Protection Must Be Worn Correctly

Fortunately, it is standard practice for imaging centers to provide patients

with earplugs and/ or headphones to reduce acoustic noise reaching the

ears. The most important thing to note is that ear protection MUST be

worn correctly for it to be effective.

Some imaging centers require the technician to place the earplug while

others allow you to do it yourself and visibly inspect that they are inserted

properly. We can not overstate the importance of proper insertion to

maximize protection.

How To Wear Soft Foam Earplugs

1. Roll the earplug up into a small, thin "snake" with your fingers. You can use one or both hands.

2. Pull the top of your ear up and back with your opposite hand to straighten out your ear canal.

3. Hold the earplug in with your finger until it expands to fill the ear canal.

Double Your Hearing Protection

Our Audiologists at Hearing Doctors strongly recommend you double your

hearing protection by wearing the provided earplugs and requesting

additional headphones to be placed on top. In addition, some new

scanners have an optional “Acoustic Reduction Mode” or “Silent Scan”

which allows the technician to dampen the level of noise by slowing the

system down - you just have to ask!

If at any time you feel the noise is too loud please speak up and alert your technician.

If you, or a loved one, are getting an MRI scan, make sure whoever is

undergoing the scan is wearing properly fitted hearing protection. This will

diminish any risk of temporary or enduring hearing loss and tinnitus.