How Does a Claustrophobic Survive an MRI?

For those of us suffering from any degree of claustrophobia, just thinking about that dreaded MRI machine could bring on a panic attack. My first experience with the Magnetic Resonance Imaging machine (MRI) followed a routine stress test. It was open-sided, but no one told me in advance that the top is placed so close to your face that you nose almost touches it. Seriously! My nose brushed the machine, and my nose is not that big! I lasted through the first 30 minutes and was told to take a break and come back in an hour for a repeat. I congratulated myself and was certain the remainder would be easy-peasy.  I lasted 5 minutes into the second session and lost it. I begged the technician to let me out and he laughed at me and walked away. When I began clawing my way from beneath the beast, he stopped the scan and disgustedly left the room. I managed to get off the table and hugged the wall all the way to the door, sweat pouring down my body. When I was able to leave the room to get dressed, a nurse offered me a Valium, if I would try again. I fairly flew out of that place.

My next experience with an MRI was anticipated with dread but this time, my doctor prepared me in advance with a prescription for Valium.  Because I was more than high on those little pills, one of the technicians stood beside me, holding my hand and talked to me constantly to make sure I stayed somewhat lucid during the test.  I breezed right through it.

There are different types of MRI machines, and claustrophobic patients should educate themselves about them. They work by emitting radio frequency waves from parts of the body after being exposed to a powerful magnetic field. They do not use radiation and are completely safe.

The standard MRI is an enclosed, tunnel-like structure and the table with the patient slides into it. It is not the best option for patients with space issues.

The open, upright MRI has the patient seated or standing, and there is nothing in front of the patient’s face. It is much more comfortable for patients with claustrophobia. Some neurologists say this type of machine doesn’t produce as clean an image as the traditional one.

The High Field Open MRI is not a tube that you are pushed into. It has open sides and nothing is supposed to push on your face or shoulders.

If the suggestions offered here don’t make the process bearable, the alternative solution is therapy to figure out the root of your anxiety.

1. Don’t listen to the experiences of your claustrophobic friends just before you undergo this test. You will end up dwelling on their bad experiences instead of relaxing before your own.
2. Ask your medical professional for a prescription for something to relax you on the day of the MRI.
3. Close your eyes and keep them closed during the procedure, if you can.
4. Take headphones and music to drown out the noise of the machine.
5. Practice deep breathing and meditation.
6. Ask if the testing center offers video glasses or anything else to distract you during the test.
7. Ask if a friend or family member can stay with you and talk to you during the test.
8. Find the most open MRI machine you can.
9. Pray!

Those who do not suffer from this condition, which isn’t always met with respect by medical professionals, have no conception of the real fear and helplessness that attack the victim of claustrophobia. You don’t have to tolerate ugliness or disrespect and can always find another physician if needed.

From my co-writer, Maggie Digiovanni:  There is one more option and I found it to be the easiest if no open MRI is available.  The last time I had an MRI, the technician simply put a bath cloth over my eyes.  For some reason, it set me immediately at ease.  I spent the time mentally writing.  I wrote articles for this blog.  I wrote my next children’s story.  In other words, I knew if I opened my eyes, I would see that friendly bath cloth instead of the suffocating tube.  I sailed through that MRI and was almost sorry it was over, because it stopped mid-story.