Patients Anxious About their MRI
The new technology offered at Thumb MRI features a spacious environment that puts anxious and claustrophobic patients at ease. This system has one of the widest openings available in MRI. The Vantage magnet has been reduced to the shortest distance in the industry. This allows the patient's head to remain outside the gantry for many procedures.
Instead of being surrounded by the noise of a jackhammer, the patients only hear a gentle tapping. This softer volume reduces patient anxiety and increases the chances for a successful scan..
If you are anxious or claustrophobic the following are ideas on how to work with your anxious feelings so you may be able to complete your MRI:
Eliminate fear of the unknown. The technologist will thoroughly explain the MRI procedure so you will know what to expect. Patients are welcome to stop in to look at the scanner prior to their scheduled MRI.
Take someone in the room with you.
A family member or friend may sit with you in the MRI room, however they will be screened for metal implants and other safety concerns. There is no radiation with MRI so it is safe for them to be in the MRI room. It may be comforting just knowing someone is by your side.
Bring a favorite CD. We have a relaxation system that allows patients to listen to a CD. This may keep your mind focused on something else.
Talk to the technologist. It's important that you tell the technologist what bothers you. The technologist can offer a wash cloth to cover your eyes, an emergency ball that when squeezed will alert the technologist that you want to come out immediately, or additional cushions or supports so you are as comfortable as possible for your test
Eliminate caffeine. These products release adrenaline and this adds to the anxiety feelings. Reduce caffeine very gradually over a period of two weeks so you experience no withdrawal symptoms.
Reduce sugar-rich foods. They Indirectly re-activate your adrenals. For the same reason it's recommended to eat small amounts of food frequently and ensure you don't get hungry.
Sip water or eat small amounts of fruit to keep your mouth moist. A dry mouth sends a "fear" signal to the brain.
Use relaxing breathing methods. The panic feelings is usually accompanied by mild to severe hyperventilation. The breathing method will calm you.
Keep physically active. Exercise such as swimming or brisk walking helps get rid of stress and physical tension.
Monitor your self-talk to avoid too much negativity. some negative thinking is understandable because it's an uncomfortable situation.
Replace negative self-talk with affirmation. For example, "one scan at a time, I can do this" the technologist will work with you on this. They can keep you informed of how many scans and how long each one will be.
Sedation. We are not able to prescribe any type of sedation. If you feel you need oral sedation, please talk to your physician. If you are given a prescription for oral sedation, take it by your doctor's instructions and have someone drive you the day of the exam.
Some patients have asked, "Can I try the MRI without the sedation then if I can't do it take my sedation and try again?" Unfortunately, this is not possible in most cases because it takes about 20-30 minutes for the sedation to take effect and this would take us into the next time slot where there would be another patient already scheduled.
Evaluate your pain level. It is necessary for you to hold still for the MRI test. If you are claustrophobic any pain you may have mighy increase your anxiety. Talk to your doctor if you feel pain medication will be needed to complete the MRI.
Please call us with any questions you may have concerning your test especially if you are anxious about the MRI test. We can be reached toll free at 1-888-399-9469.
