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MRA Scan (Magnetic Resonance Angiography)

Concerned about circulation, stroke risk or unexplained headaches? Get a clear, radiation-free view of your arteries and veins.

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What is an MRA scan?

An MRA scan (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) is a highly advanced, non-invasive imaging technique designed to examine your blood vessels with exceptional clarity.

Using sophisticated magnetic technology and radio waves, it creates detailed, high-resolution images of how blood flows through your arteries and veins. This allows specialists to assess circulation and identify potential concerns without the need for radiation or invasive procedures.

Precise, safe, and comfortable, an MRA scan offers a refined way to understand your vascular health with confidence.

When might you need an MRA scan?

An MRA scan is recommended when a more detailed view of your blood vessels is required. It is particularly useful for assessing how blood moves through the body and identifying any disruption to normal circulation.

What symptoms could lead to this scan?

You may be advised to have an MRA scan if you are experiencing:

Persistent or severe headaches
Sudden, intense “worst-ever” headaches
Dizziness or vertigo
Blurred or double vision
Weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs
Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
Loss of balance or coordination
Chest pain or leg pain during movement
Cold or pale limbs due to reduced blood flow

What conditions can an MRA help detect?

An MRA scan provides detailed insight into vascular health and can help identify:

Narrowed blood vessels (stenosis)
Blocked or restricted blood flow
Aneurysms (bulging or weakened vessel walls)
Abnormal blood vessel formations

This level of detail allows for accurate diagnosis and better-informed care.

Who may be at higher risk of vascular problems?

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of vascular conditions, including:

High blood pressure
Diabetes
Smoking
Family history of stroke or aneurysm
Cardiovascular conditions

Why is early detection important?

Catching vascular problems early can make a real difference.

If left untreated, these conditions can lead to more serious issues such as stroke, reduced blood supply to organs, or complications from weakened blood vessels. Early detection allows treatment to begin sooner and can help prevent these risks.

How does an MRA scan support diagnosis?

An MRA scan gives doctors a detailed view of your blood vessels and how blood is moving through them. It helps to:

Identify where blood flow may be reduced or blocked
Highlight any abnormal areas
Provide a clearer understanding of your overall vascular health

In some cases, a contrast dye may be used to make the images even more detailed.

What happens after diagnosis?

Once your results are ready, your doctor will talk you through the next steps. Depending on what the scan shows, this could include:

Medication to support circulation or manage conditions
Lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, or stopping smoking
Further tests if needed
Procedures or treatments in more serious cases

Everything is based on your individual results.

How should you prepare for your MRA scan?

Preparing for an MRA scan is simple. You’ll usually be asked to:

Remove jewellery, watches, and any metal items
Wear a hospital gown if needed
Inform the team about any implants or medical devices
Let staff know about any health conditions

If a contrast dye is required, this will be explained to you in advance.

What happens during the scan?

You’ll lie on a comfortable table that moves into the scanner
The machine makes tapping or humming sounds during the scan
You’ll be given ear protection to stay comfortable
Staying still is important to get clear images

The scan itself is painless.

What happens after the scan?

You can go back to your normal activities straight away
If contrast dye was used, you may be observed briefly
Most people find the experience straightforward and easy

Results

A specialist will review your scan and prepare a report for you and your doctor. Results are usually available within 2 to 7 days depending on the package.

Book an appointment

Our team will support you in arranging your private MRA scan across London and Essex. We are here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through every step of your healthcare journey, ensuring a smooth and reassuring experience.

We also offer expert MRI reporting within 24 hours, with same-day results available for scans completed before 18:00 (both services available at an additional cost).

Book your MRI Scan today or call us on 01702 782 006.

Frequently asked questions

What can an MRA detect in the brain?
It can show narrowed or blocked arteries, aneurysms, and other changes that may increase the risk of stroke.

How does an MRA scan work?
It uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of blood vessels. Sometimes a contrast dye is used for added clarity.

When will I get my results?
Most results are available within 2 to 7 days depending on the package after review by a specialist.