Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful diagnostic tool, but the experience can be daunting for those suffering from claustrophobia.
If the idea of lying still in an MRI machine fills you with dread, understanding the process and how to prepare for it can help alleviate your anxiety. Our Coastal Ortho team understands your concerns and has several tips to help you handle an MRI if you’re claustrophobic.
MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of the inside of your body. MRIs help diagnose various medical conditions, from soft tissue injuries to neurological disorders. The detailed images guide our doctors in creating effective treatment plans.
The process is noninvasive and typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour. However, because the MRI machine is a narrow tube that surrounds your body, you might feel nervous about it if you have claustrophobia. Knowing what to expect can make the experience less intimidating.
Here are some strategies to help you manage those fears.
Before your MRI, discuss your claustrophobia with our doctors. We can provide valuable advice and may prescribe anti-anxiety medication to take before the procedure.
Look for a facility like Coastal Ortho offering open or wide-bore MRI machines. These machines are less confining and can reduce feelings of entrapment.
Visit Coastal Ortho’s MRI suite beforehand. Familiarizing yourself with the environment can help reduce anxiety on the day of your scan.
Connecting with others who share similar fears can be incredibly supportive. Online forums and local support groups provide a platform to share experiences and coping strategies.
On the day of your MRI scan, try these coping strategies to help you get through the procedure without a hitch.
Deep breathing exercises calm your mind and body. Practice these techniques regularly before your MRI appointment to ensure you can use them effectively during the scan.
Visualization is imagining yourself in a calm, safe place. This mental escape can distract you from the confined space of the MRI machine.
If it helps, bring a small comfort item, like a blanket or a stuffed toy. Holding something familiar can provide emotional support during the scan.
You can communicate with our MRI technician at any time during the scan. Knowing you can speak up if you feel too anxious can be reassuring.
Don’t hesitate to lean on friends and family for support. Having a loved one accompany you to the appointment can provide significant emotional comfort.
If your claustrophobia is severe, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be highly effective in managing anxiety related to MRIs.
Claustrophobia doesn’t have to prevent you from getting the necessary medical imaging. Talk with our experienced physicians and MRI technicians — we can help make your MRI experience stress-free. To schedule your MRI, call Coastal Ortho in Torrance or El Segundo, California, today.