For anyone having an MRI scan ...

[Archiesmummy]

Just to let you know, I know people find the MRI scans daunting but its not half as bad as it seems. For my scan I did have to go into the tunnel with my full body covered. It was reasonably comfortable with a pillow and I closed my eyes. There was a light behind me, somwhere, and I imagined I was laying on a beach with the sun beaming down on me (the light gave this impression). It was not too hot, there is a fan and the radiographer kept in contact with me via an intercom. I also had a panic button, but didn't need this. I was scanned for approximately 20 minutes, twice.

For anyone having an MRI, please remember you wouldn't be recommended for one unless it was necessary and you will be looked after. Don't listen to the horror stories. It is not going to hurt you and will be over relatively quickly. So far as confinement goes, when your eyes are shut you could be laying in a field sunbathing, just use your imagination.

So far as the outcome, get the MRI out of the way first before you dwell on that what ifs. Its pretty much out of your hands what is going on inside you but if the prognosis proves unwelcome you are already being looked after and your condition managed, something that cannnot be done unless you have the scan done first.

On a lighter note, ensure you are not wearing any body piercings in certain places. The metal heats up and you could get rather uncomfortable Not talking from direct experience but one who witnessed a rather unfortunate event

 

[NeilM]

I had an MRI three years ago.

I am not claustrophobic, but I had not realised that it's a pretty small tube and my shoulders were pressing on both sides. As soon as the noise started I was able to lay back and relax and it was all over and done with in no time (around 20 mins), to be chalked it up as another of lifes little distractions.

 

[boneo]

A few years ago, I had to have a series of scans, and being very large, found in very claustrophobic, to the extent that at one stage I had to abort the procedure. I was told later I could ask for a special pair of prismatic lens, something like a pair of spectacles, which allowed you to look up, but actually gave the impression that you were at a 90 degree angle, I fould this helped enormously, and after that, I had no problems. I was told they were always available, you only had to ask!

 

[Snowysadude]

I agree! I have had a couple now and have been in for an hour each time! I just closed my eyes and listened to the music, as well as telling myself that my feet are out the end and i can climb out in the worst case scenario as they dont shut off the end or anything ! Haha i do get very claustrophobic as well!

 

[luckilotti]

Having had numerous MRIs since a young age, they really are not as bad as many make out. i had one a few dyas before Christmas and as i am now a 'pro' at them then never even gave me the panic button.

I go ready for it.. no metal on me anywhere... so that means a sports type crop top rather than bra, trackie bottoms or something without a metal zip/clasp to fasteren them, etc.

 

[AGAGE]

I've had several fMRI's as a research participant at the cognition and brain sciences unit (I work as an Assistant Psychologist). I found the first time daunting as I had to have my eyes open to do a computer brain training task, but really quiet enjoyed the second time I participated. Again I had to keep eyes open as I was doing a task. I also got a photo of my brain, as a bonus! I was in there for an hour and a half at a time and managed fine.

Just remember to breath deeply. It is also very noisy. The first time I thought I'd broken the machine with my capped metal tooth! Only to find out it's meant to be that noisy.

My grandma who is very claustrophobic- won't go in lift etc, had an MRI done and managed it fine, just don't open your eyes unless you have to as, there are only a very few inches between your head and the machine.

 

[blueneonrainbow]

Ive had a couple of MRI scans and really they are nothing to worry about. Its the noise that gets to me but once you get over that its quite relaxing... gave me a good opportunity to think about stuff!

 

[TequilaMist]

I found the noise quite rythymical and relaxing once you get in.TBH more panicy about if I'd remembered to take anything metal off.

 

[measles]

I have also had one and nothing at all to worry about!

 

[diamonddogs]

OMG, nothing prepares you for that noise does it!!!

I get claustrophobic at times too, but our machine has a mirror - hard to describe, but it's positioned so you can see them in the office, so it takes away the feeling that you're closed in, which helped me no end.