Do I need to undergo an MRI?

Siti Naiezah Abdul Aziz

02 Feb 2026

My doctor informed me that I have a fusion of my C5 and C6 vertebrae, which is likely present since birth—based on my own research, this is referred to as congenital C5–C6 fusion.Two weeks ago, I fainted suddenly. Since that episode, I have experienced four headaches. The fourth one was the most severe, accompanied by numbness in both cheekbones and a pressing pain at the back of my head that radiates toward my eyes. I also have ringing in my ears (tinnitus).The doctor prescribed Caffox and painkillers, but the pain only subsides temporarily and returns once the medication wears off. Given these symptoms, is it necessary for me to get an MRI?"

Answer:

Congenital fusion of the C5–C6 vertebrae is a condition that is often present from birth and may remain asymptomatic for many years. However, when new neurological symptoms occur—such as fainting (syncope), recurrent or worsening headaches, facial numbness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or pain radiating from the neck to the head and eyes—further medical evaluation is generally advised.

While medications such as Caffox and analgesics may provide temporary symptom relief, they do not address potential underlying neurological or vascular causes. In cases like yours, doctors commonly recommend advanced imaging studies, such as an MRI of the brain and cervical spine. Given your history of fainting and the progression of symptoms, an MRI would be considered an appropriate and important next step, subject to assessment by a specialist (such as a neurologist or orthopaedic spine specialist).

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