So what is an mri like?

[OhYouBadBadKitten]

Am being referred for one for sacroillitis - haven't got the foggiest about the waiting list, but its not urgent so I don't care really as long as it happens sometime.

Anyway, top tips and advice very welcome please.

I've had two, 30 minutes each and hated them both. I was completely enclosed and since I'm claustrophobic really struggled to stay calm. It can be very noisy but I was given headphones and music - I also tried to think of other things. Try to imagin you're in a noisy sunbed, and think of it as an opportunity to lie down and do nothing for a while! The main thing that stopped me from pressing the button and leaping out was the thought that I'd just have to go in again. The staff are very calming, and I'm sure it'll be fine, I know I'd manage another one if I had to!

I had one of my head - after I got them to put a blanket over my feet (sticking out and getting cold), I just went to sleep!

That sounds cosy!
I'll take my big pink fluffy socks

I had to wear a really horrid hospital nightie for mine because I had an underwired bra on. definitely worth going braless if you can.

Other than that it was ok, just a little unnerving. I listened to radio 2 as thats what I would have been doing at home and it helped alot. The operator talked me through it and asked how I was doing alot which helped.

I have also had two MRI scans, just lie back, relax and close your eyes, and imagine you are somewhere nice. As someone has already said you have a button to hold just incase you feel panicky. My fillings were fine as well.

I'm very relieved to hear that your fillings were fine too deadlyscorpion

I guess I sort of knew that they wouldnt be allowed to use machines on people that such their fillings out at high speed. but you new know.....

I'm feeling pretty reassured now - thank you

Though it has dawned on me that we won't be doing any glitter projects for a few days before hand. No sparkly lush bath bombs either!

I find them a real struggle. I'm claustrophobic and have had a panic attack in one too. I now take two valium an hour beforehand when I have to have one. If you are in the slightest bit worried about managing, ask your GP for something to have on the way there. Finding them terrifying is very common. As far as I'm concerned it's like being in a tomb. I'm generally pretty good at mind over matter and can deal with huge amounts of pain but this really was one step too much for me.

I have had one too , for a neck injury so it was my head in the machine. I didn't realise my head would be held in position with a kind of brace type thing, or that my arms would be strapped down to keep my neck totally still. I also found it a bit claustrophobic, I kept my eyes shut and sang songs in my head.I was given a button to press if I wanted to get out at any time .I found it very noisy even with ear plugs but it doesn't hurt at all and fillings are fine.