MRI claustrophobia HELP

[Ched1]

Hi,

I’ve had an MRI scan in 2019 & was petrified as I’m claustrophobic, anyway I must have hyped it up so much in my head that when I got there, I actually managed to have it done & I was fine.

I went for one today & wasn’t as worried as the first time, because I knew I’d had one & it was fine.

Anyway today I completely freaked out & couldn’t go through with it, I’m now absolutely livid with myself.

But the point in my post is does anyone have any advice on how I can overcome this, as I need to have it done..I really don’t want to take diazepam

I had to have an MRI and was fearful about claustrophobia so I made a plan that I wasn't going to open my eyes at all. Before I went into the machine I closed my eyes and I kept them closed strictly for the whole procedure until I knew I was out again. It was tempting to open them but I resisted, and listened to the music intently and was determined not to mess up the test as I wanted the reassurance of knowing that I didn't have any health problems. The incentive of getting the all clear (hopefully) was key to this. Of course if you have a full on panic they can always cancel part way through, but that would be a shame. You've just got to be really determined that you're not going to cheat! Good luck

I have had several and like the PP I always close my eyes before it starts and don't open them again until I am out. In fact last time I took a little weighted lavender eye pillow with me which helped to keep them shut and the nice smell calmed me. I had ear protectors on to muffle the noise and concentrated on breathing evenly and enjoying the cool air wafting over me. I was in there for 45 minutes and if it hadn't been for the noise (albeit muffled) I could probably have fallen asleep! Good luck.

I'm the same. Close your eyes (use an eye mask if necessary) before you go in & ask for them to put in relaxing music (or an audiobook if they can).

It's not the best experience but you can make it manageable.

Thanks all. The problem I have is loosing a sense, even though it’s just me closing my eyes, makes me feel more out of control.

I like to have an escape route, even though o wouldn’t have to use it. This time the nurse I had wasn’t as understanding, not really her fault but didn’t help my situation. Because I have the cage on my head, when they clamped it down I all of a sudden realised I couldn’t wriggle out, because I’m clamped to the board I’m on! Last time I had this cage too but felt like I could get out of I needed to, but the nurse had said that wasn’t possible, hence panic set it.

I’m so annoyed with myself because the first one I had I did it, this time I just freaked out & was inconsolable! I need to get a grip, because logically I know there’s a hole each end & I’m not going to get stuck!

Now I’ve had such a bad experience, even though before I thought I’d be fine! I’m not worried about how I’ll react or overcome it next time!