MRI scan - tips on coping!

[BigbreastsBiggerbeard]

Can anyone tell me how to cope with claustrophobia when having an MRI scan? Really need one but had a panic attack the other day when they wheeled me into it. Really need one but the thought of going back fills me with dread.

This year I really struggled with MRIs after never having had a problem with them in years past. The nurses couldn't have been kinder and I was able to get through the first MRI scan by absolutely not opening my eyes and by singing to myself in my head for the full 40 minutes without stopping! Then for the next one I was already anxious before I went in and explained that I'd had difficulties previously and the nurse got out a kind of periscope that could be attached to the top of the section that goes over your head and meant that if I opened my eyes I would be looking at the nurses station instead of at the inside of the scanner. This helped enormously! So with this, the singing, and the very simple slow breathing pattern of in for 3 and out for 3, I got through it. I had some really simple songs already planned, nursery rhyme type counting songs (50 green bottles anyone? ) that can go on for a really long time and that you can't possibly forget. It's all about distraction. Medication hadn't occurred to me but whatever helps.

I had an MRI and coped by silently swearing throughout the whole thing. I realised later there is a camera and they can see you! My next MRI was an open scanner but you still lay down. Wasn't a bit bothered by it. They thought I had a lumbar stenosis but it was actually my knees. I hope you manage ok OP.