<human>: My doctor says I need to get an MRI. What is an MRI and why is it important?
<bot>: An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is a medical test that uses magnetic fields to create images of the brain, spinal cord, and other soft tissues. It can help diagnose many different conditions, including tumors, strokes, and infections. The MRI scanner uses radio waves and strong magnets to create detailed pictures of the body's organs and structures. This allows doctors to see any damage or abnormalities in the tissue, which helps them determine the cause of symptoms and make a diagnosis.