MRI Scan for Tinnitus — Do They Use Contrast?

My father has developed loud left sided tinnitus (just like me). His is getting louder over time however, and he also has a left sided headache. As a result of this he is being given an MRI, something I never had at the start of my tinnitus.

His main concern is ruling out anything sinister and at his age (70s) I understand that. However I did wonder about people's experiences of MRI for tinnitus - is there any risk of making it worse? Do they normally give you headphones, and is contrast such as gadolinium used?

Any experience of this appreciated.

 

A MRI was recommended by my ENT to rule out an acoustic neuroma and I did it early on. I do believe I had earplugs as it can be loud at times. There are those who recommend against it due to the sound (it's not that bad) but the benefits outweigh the risks in my opinion and I had no trouble with it.

 

Thanks!

 

I did an MRI to rule out acoustic neuroma after my T and hearing loss onset. I wasn't given any hearing protection. I was actually told I couldn't wear any because it would interfere with the images, which I am doubtful of. It was without contrast.

 

I did it and yes they sometimes use contrast.