Many people after receiving gadolinium, an MRI dye, find that their body does not discharge of the dye. Instead, they are faced with dozens of side effects that make living nearly impossible. However, doctors keep pushing the chemical saying they need it for a better picture of the body.
Need For Gadolinium
Gadolinium contrast medium is used in about 1 in 3 MRI scans. Medical professionals insist that it is harmless. However, it is not. Even though they will ask a series of questions before giving a gadolinium injection does not mean you are safe. In fact, they may ask you to sign a consent form. As with any medical procedure, you have the right to decline the injection. You may feel pressured to receive it since the medical professional may insist that the dye could make images clearer. However, an additional scan can be just as good.
Gadolinium Retention Symptoms
Recently, it has been recognized that linear forms of gadolinium contrast are retained in the tissues, mostly in the bones, with tiny amounts in the brain. Dr. Richard Semelka named this buildup Gadolinium Deposition Disease (GDD). Gadolinium retention symptoms are similar to the previously noted side effect of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), however, they are present in those with healthy renal function.
Symptoms include:
- A persistent headache
- Bone and joint pain
- “Brain Fog”
- Thickening of soft tissue
- Skin that appears spongy or rubbery
- Painful tendons and ligaments
- Tightness in the hands and feet
- Burning, cutting or pins and needles pain in arms, legs, and torso