Cardiac MRI

[WeaverShaz]

I have to have a cardiac MRI tomorrow, with contrast. I am somewhat concerned that the letter says it could take an hour. I am claustrophobic to some degree and whilst I have coped with MRI's for my gall bladder, they only took around 10-15 mins. Not sure I can stay calm for an hour!! Any tips welcomed please.

[Calliope153]

I managed an hour by basically keeping my eyes shut most of the time. I don;t even use lifts............ it was ok and often you aren't in it for the full hour so it could be a lot shorter than they say - standard letter probably. Good luck .

[WeaverShaz in reply to Calliope153]

Thanks. I should be able to manage that ... I hope.

[Brandibell]

Hi, I am having one next week. Can't say i am looking forward to it but needs must and I shall just shut my eyes and go to my happy place. It will be over before we know it and there is a button if it gets too much. Fingers crossed it is not for an hour..I have read 30 minutes normally. Take care .

[WeaverShaz in reply to Brandibell]

Good luck next week.

[Darkshades]

I had to have an MRI of my head one time and they put my head in a sort of gadget like a wired cage which had a mirror attached so you could see out - made the world of difference... ask them to give you one xx

[GonnaGetBetter]

Not sure if they can, but I have been given an anti anxiety med to calm me down during my long mri, maybe ask your gp about it?

[193639]

Hi there,

I just had my cardiac MRI on Friday there, took about 45 minutes, wasn’t that bad as the scanning machine was open ended, be prepared for plenty of breath in and out and hold instructions. I asked for an extra pillow as it was uncomfortable on my neck, this resulted in my face being closer to the top of the machine, you’ll be okay

[WeaverShaz]

Thanks everyone. It was last Friday and, as others said, lasted about 45 mins. I found it uncomfortable as the coil over my chest got quite hot, and my right arm got pins and needles and then went numb, but I coped. The key I found was keeping my eyes tight shut. Fortunately I didn’t need contrast dye either.now toawaitthe results.