Upcoming MRI - Nerves are kicking in!

[CreativeADHDLeo]

Hi all, just wondering if anyone here has had an MRI before? I’m booked in for one this weekend and I was nervous before because I have mild claustrophobia, but then the hospital sent through a letter saying there’s a risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (which causes extreme fatigue and kidney damage). I know the risk of CIN is really small, but it’s really set off my anxiety! I had Long Covid back in 2021 that rendered me bed bound for over a month and a half and it was so scary.

The MRI is to check that there aren’t any underlying conditions that haven’t been spotted during pelvic examinations. Dr is expecting it to come back negative, it seems to be a last ditch attempt to see if this can give them any answers, rather than looking for something they suspect is actually causing me pelvic pain!

Thanks x

[Tarotmumma]

hi

I have had loads of mri scans for back related problems and other things

You must tell the staff first off that you are claustrophobic and they will look after you. The scan itself goes like this you have to lay on a narrow bed sometimes they put supports around you to stop you moving then they usually give you a device to hold which you can press whilst you are in the scan if you are panicking they will bring you out I promise they will give you ear plugs too because it is a bit noisy

The bed thing slides like a conveyor belt into a dome shape contraption then once you are in as far in as needs be they will talk to you and tell you what is next usually it’s 5-10 mins first and you will hear a banging noise which is the magnetic thing which takes the pictures hence the ear plugs! Sometimes the bed moves in a big more then more banging and sound of like an alarm beeping etc until they have what they need then you are slid out again

It can get a bit warm in there so don’t be alarmed that is natural! Sometimes they play music for you too! It isn’t the most pleasant experience but honestly it’s not that long

Take some deep breaths close your eyes and imagine you are somewhere else! I’m sure you will be fine and if it helps with your prognosis then that’s brilliant it will be worth the little time of feeling uncomfortable

I hope it goes ok for you 🤗

[Superzob]

You are not obliged to take the contrast dye, but the result is more accurate if you do. I was suspicious on the first occasion that it affected my thyroid and, because I was taking my wife for cancer treatment at the time, I felt it best not to have contrast on the 2nd occasion. It was only a precaution in particular circumstances and I would have contrast again if I have another MRI; there was a bit of an argument about it at the time, but it didn't prevent the MRI taking place and the result was clear enough.

[endoTHENmesh]

If you are claustrophobic - please let your doctor know in advance and request a mild tranquilizer. MRI is an expensive test and you want to get the best images possible - which means being very still. I would explain to the doctor that you want him/her to have the best images so he/she is interested in your being calm. You should also know there will be scanning techs outside the MRI room who will be able to verbally interact with you throughout the scan. They will explain what is happening, how long each scan is, and are concerned with your comfort.

That said - the newer MRIs (3 Tesla) are larger inside (than the 1.5 Tesla). I was a manufacturing engineer (built them) for GE. My trick is to keep my eyes closed as I am moved in on the patient table. I picture (in my mind) blue skies above. And I listen to the sounds of the scanner and pretend they are the sounds of riding in a railroad car. You know - the sounds of going over the tracks - rhythmic.

Of course it may sound like something else to you - so create your own images in your mind.

Again - it is common to be uncomfortable in closed spaces, so do ask for a tranquilizer if you are scared you will not be able to tolerate the closeness. No need to suffer. It is better to get good images and to have a good experience, as we all will need another in the course of our lives. Good luck and keep those eyes closed

PS - Keep in mind there is no danger. Our minds become concerned if we think there might be danger. This is a safe space with scanner techs just outside.

PPSS - For those who absolutely cannot tolerate the "tunnel" style MRIs, there are "open MRIs" which are 2 circular plates above and below your body. They are not as good for most images and usually are for arms and legs - but are possible if all else is intolerable. There are also "stand up" MRIs - where a clam shell type arrangement hugs you, but your face is open to see the techs. These are more often used when standing up yields a different outcome than laying down...

Again - none of these MRIs are in anyway dangerous. OH - and breath through your nose. It is calming and will keep you from breathing too fast.

[Gloria72]

you should be given earplugs and earphones too so you should be fine .

[Jcpud]

I told my doc that I was claustrophobic and they prescribed Valium for me to take during the procedure. I also closed my eyes and kept them closed during the exam.