How to survive an MRI if you are claustrophobic

As a claustrophobic, my first MRI attempt 15 years ago was a disaster. I hit the panic button quickly and was sobbing by the time they got me out of there. Since then, I've been hooked up to an IV for valium while I'm in there. It's better than everyone, since I won't be wasting the time of the staff by not being able to complete the MRI. I'd advise people be honest with themselves about what they can and can't handle. Asking for help is not a bad thing - it's the best option for everyone involved in the process.

I wish I had your suggestions before my first MRI, because I would probably have had a much better experience. Great ideas!

I may be needing an MRI soon, and I also happen to be a little claustrophobic. The MRI is definitely an important test, so I will just need to work on overcoming my fear. These are some great tips to help. I hadn't thought of wearing a washcloth over the eyes, but that is an easy trick that might help. Thanks for sharing!

Just tried to have an MRI today and I lost it. Couldn't do it. Need the MRI because I was in a bad car accident. Not sure if medication will help
Need help

I just had an MRI and it was the first one where I seriously thought about squeezing the ball to be pulled out (have had maybe 3-4 prior years ago).

I know I've become more claustrophobic as I've grown older and the idea of being stuck in that tube is frightening. I actually like the sounds and find them calming.

So, I NEVER have my eyes open. That would NOT work! My mind can still "see" the confined space and once I slightly opened them to look down at the entrance at my toes out of curiosity - in flowed panic.

I thought about counting and decided to go with visualization to calm and focus myself. I started with my happiest place and had to think about the textures and details because I couldn't recreated the calm feeling that happy place normally brings. When I ran out of details I moved on and recreated in my mind all the rooms and details of my passed grandparent's house. And I explored a second house I can no longer visit, room by room.

The distraction of trying to remember and feel the details was engrossing - but I'm sad I no longer "enjoy" the MRI experience. Good luck to you.

I just completed my MRI, Being a big man and very clostafobic I took .05 clonapezium and Valium. I became very tired and by the time the tech hooked up the in contrast I was sleeping. I never remembered going into the tube.

I had my first MRI this morning. I do suffer a tad from claustrophobia, so I had myself mentally prepared for the tunnel. I did NOT anticipate the face cage. The technician was great about me freaking out a bit. I had to take the cage off the first time, then made it in, but freaked out when I opened my eyes. I finally got through it by:

Trading the earphones for earplugs (take some with you if they do not offer them). I Found the earphones made my head fit too snug in the bottom pillow and made it worse. The plugs allowed me to turn my head side to side which felt better.

Lay down and close your eyes and breathe for a couple of minutes. Just let yourself get comfortable lying there without moving, and without the cage at first. Allow the technician to snap on the cage after you give her a "thumb's up" and request she snaps the clasp as quietly as possible.

Tuck your arms close to your sides so you do not feel the slight squeeze at the entrance to the tunnel. I'm a chubby girl, and it worked for me. If you are larger, perhaps clasp your hands over your chest-just don't move.

My MRI was 8 sequences. I had my tech tell me which number we were on and how long it would last. The range was 14 seconds to 2 min 45 seconds. Then you just count until it's over.

Whatever you do, just do NOT open your eyes!!!!

You can do it!

I'm attempting to undergo an MRI for a thoracic strain after two attempts I'm experiencing reoccurring panic attacks/anxiety,I'm awaiting a call from the doc for next step traumatizing to say the least,you never know until you attempt it.

I am terrirfide this morning going for
MRI.Taking nerve medicine.Hope it
Works.Pray for me.
Thank you.

I had my first fully enclosed MRI yesterday for my shoulder. The technician gave me something to put on that really helped me get through it without experiencing a feeling of panic. It was a pair of glasses with 45 degree angled mirrors on the lenses, so when you open your eyes while looking straight up you're actually seeing the opening of the tube toward your feet. It really created a case of perception over reality and I recommend that every MRI imaging center offer the same glasses to claustrophobic patients. Had I not worn them and opened my eyes during the MRI I can't say that I may not have hit the panic button. It's a lot tighter in there than it looks when you're standing next to the machine, especially when you're strapped in and your shoulder is tucked into a restraint.

I have two MRIs coming up (head and breasts), which will be done at the same time. I am extremely claustrophobic; have been told by nurse that I cannot have an IV to be totally put out. What is the strongest med that I can take so that I am NOT aware of anything that is going on, as I just cannot tolerate knowing when I am going into the tube or even being in it.

Had my first MRI today,well, attempted to have.I didn't take the 5mg or Valium doc prescribed thinking I was able to get thru it but soon as I was sliding in,I squeezed the panic ball.Im so disappointed but going to reschedule so I can get it done because I need to have done and this time will take the meds to be able to relax.My anxiety got the best of me this time but hopefully not next time.

I am so claustrophobic and I went in for a second attempt yesterday for a shoulder MRI. First one was the regular open tube and the second one was apparently an open MRI which really did not make any difference. Panicked again and lasted only a few minutes. My issue is the closeness of the ceiling of the MRI to my face and makes me feel like I am in a coffin. Reading these posts, I think if I can go in feet first and/or lie on my stomach, I will feel more in control. Does anyone know if either of these are always options?

I wigged out today during MRI & couldn’t do it. He slid me in a couple inches and I was like NOPE. The top of the tube was so close to my face there’s just no way. I will be rescheduling for the “big” machine.

I was told by a friend that they have a stand up MRI machine in Germany has anyone else heard or experience this machine I'm severely claustrophobia

Needed a MRI tried yesterday went in tube had eyes close but needed to open for a second and i freaked out squeezing the button and screaming. I can't handle that machine so i need the strongest thing to sedate whats the strongest?

I'm going for an MRI in about 3 hours, it was originally scheduled for August but they had a cancelation (probably because someone read these comments lol) and called me yesterday. Luckily I don't have too much time to worry, I will be taking a prescribed Ativan prior to, hoping this works. I will post my experience later.

Awful awful awful! Went this morning for my MRI, I was a little worried going in but the technician said "Hey you just had a baby! NOTHING is worse than childbirth!"
I would have agree'd with her on any other day. I got in that tube and didn't even wait for it to start up before I screamed my way out and burst into tears. I didn't consider myself a wimp but this is something else. I don't think I can go back, I really don't know what to do. I can conclude that it is worse than childbirth and my babies head was in the 95th percentile.

I have been deathly afraid of the very thought of going in an MRI tube since I was a little kid since i am extremely claustrophobic and fear having a panic attack while stuck inside. Finally I had to bite the bullet and get one this afternoon.

Please allow me to give you a few pro tips as my experience ended up not being bad at all. Dare I say I found it relaxing, which would have sounded so foreign to my trembling self two days ago.

First of all, ask your doctor for prescription of Ativan (250 mbs) and take them an hour before your appointment. That will settle you down. Secondly, only go to place that has a short/Wide bore machine. These are wider with more interior space while also being a bit shorter. With these machines some of your body won't even have to enter the tube and the interior space is not uncomfortable.

I had an MRI on my lower back and I was able to go in feet first an only had to go in so that my my head was barely inside the tube. In fact, I could literally see the outside of the tube the whole time by glancing upward.

Knowing i had more space than imagined and my head was a mere few inches from being outside, i was at complete ease and almost fell asleep a few times during the scans (the noises are strangely hypnotic). The time flew by and I was almost disappointed it was over as I was so comfortable.

Now I realize if you have to get a scan from the chest up then more of your head will be in an it may be as comfortable but otherwise it seems like 60% of patients can get one of these tests with very little anxiety

I never considered myself to be claustrophobic. But things changed when the face cage was clamped in place. That's when I started to feel confined. As the technician started me into the tube, I told her to please wait. After a couple of minutes of me expressing my unexpected fear of being stuck in a tube and her asking me if I still wanted to go ahead with it, I said I'd try it because I really needed to have it done. I asked if there was an open MRI machine anywhere in our town, but she said not for the brain. Another factor that had me very fearful was the time it would take. Because I was scheduled for 3 different brain scans, it was scheduled to take close to an hour. Ugh! So I closed my eyes and entered the tube, but then she stopped it. I asked her if that was all the farther I had to go in and she replied yes. She said, "here, let me have your hand. See, you're not in there that far at all." Well, that brought immediate relief to me! For some reason, I envisioned that I was going to be in up to my ankles. I hope this helps somebody. Try to remember that you're only about an arm's length away from being out. I still kept my eyes closed though and I had ear plugs and headphones with music. The MRI noises were loud so I could still hear them, but they didn't bother me at all. Kind of rhythmic with varied sounds.

Thanks for sharing your experience, Anne, your story could really help encourage others to stick it out!
Tamara

I've had an MRI before, that I handled fairly well, so even though I'm mildly claustrophobic I knew what to expect and declined sedatives for the MRI scan I had last week. Big mistake. It turns out the MRI I had a few years ago was with a "wide bore" machine. The one last week was considerably tighter than that one. My arms were up against the walls of the tunnel. To help with the pain in my shoulder I pulled my right hand onto my stomach and held it there with my left hand -- the back of my left hand would touch the ceiling of the tunnel when I took a deep breath. Not good. But I was just going to keep my eyes closed and power through it for half an hour. And then the jackhammer sounds began and something was wrong - my stomach and intestines wiggled and pulled and moved all around like I had a litter of kittens in there. I squeezed the panic bulb and the machine stopped. Instantly it occurred to me what was happening. I'd had an upset stomach that afternoon, so just before departing for the scan I took a big swig of Pepto Bismol. Pepto contains bismuth, which is a metal. (It's funny, they ask you tons of questions to see if you have any metal in your body, but they never ask if you've drank Pepto recently.) Bismuth, element 83 in the periodic table, is diamagnetic, meaning that it is repelled by magnetic fields. In fact, of all the elements in the periodic table, no other metal is MORE diamagnetic than bismuth! The operator asked what was wrong. I explained that I'd had Pepto just before arriving and that I could feel my innard's moving around in response to the magnets. She assured me that I'd be fine, and resumed the scanning. The feeling wasn't painful but it was unnerving and added to my anxiety. I hope this helps someone.

Going in for an MRI and x-ray of my neck. Was told from old MRI, I'll be needing surgery... Not a very calming thing to hear. I'm very claustrophobic and hopefully I'll make it through this ordeal today... It's VERY important that it gets done too so I know I can't just chicken out and not do it. Plan on taking a Valium before procedure, just not sure how long before the exam should I take it.

Today was my third attempt but couldn't make it. I am going for sedation in my next attempt.

I had to have a brain MRI today and I am extremely claustrophobic, but I had one five years ago and got through it without any sedatives or meds and have gotten through all of my breast MRIs. The machines opening was so small and I am only 5’2”s and 112 pounds and there was little room. I new it would be hard but I couldn’t even make it long enough for her to start the machine once the head cage was on and she put me in I panicked and started to cry once she got me out. Tried again and couldn’t even get into the tube, that damn head cage makes it unbearable for me. I am going to try again with a sedative of some kind called in but I do not even think that will help. I have now started to panic anytime I think about having to do it. The technician told me that an open MRI for the brain would be worse but since I wouldn’t be in a tube I think it would be better to attempt that with the help of a sedative?? They do not have an open machine but other hospitals in the area do, I am wondering if I am better off doing that? I do not want to waste their time or mine if I can’t get through it a second time.

They put me in feet first and that helped

I am extremely claustrophobic. I have walked 25 flights to avoid an elevator. I haven't taken an elevator in a long long time. I take the steps. I had to get off the table just for CAT scan of my brain and wait months before they could get the anesthetist to put me to sleep. My niece was in the room with me and she said all during that time I supposedly was asleep I was saying him it's on my face it's on my face. I live alone and I am so afraid that sometime I'm going to have to go to the ER and I don't know if they were really listen to me if they want to put me in an MRI. I have to be asleep and I mean totally out before I can do it. Please pray that I never ever have to have one. I had an Open MRI for my hips but that wasn't hard to do because it just went to my waist in my head was completely out.

Made it! LoL, had my first MRI today for my back. Before leaving the house I took my anti anxiety med and felt confident I would have no issue, the tube was a wide bore and seemed ok...bigger than I thought. Then they slide me in and as soon as I made it to the middle I flipped out and told them I needed to get out, even scared the tech. I decided to try again and asked to go in feet first which helped me tremendously, also putting a washcloth over my eyes and not using the head phones for music as they made me more claustrophobic.

I am going for an MRI tomorrow. My first MRI was torture but I made it. I had one in the hospital last week with an IV sedative because I don’t breathe good on my back at all. (I am claustrophobic but my main problem is that I have a hard time just laying in bed sometimes). I was lucky that it went fine because I had to go straight back to surgery to remove a blood clot on my spine where the surgery was just performed. Now I’m going to a clinic for a follow up MRI and they gave me 5 mg Valium to take. Hopefully it works because their hoping to make out a mass on my spine now that the swelling should be down from surgery. So I reading to take them a hour before the test? Say a prayer I get through it because I have a Neurosurgeon and a Infectious Disease Dr waiting on results. Also I have to wear a hard neck brace at all times for 3 months so they didn’t put the dreaded cage over my face. They left my brace on an put something on both sides.

I’m going for an MRI and am EXTREMELY claustrophobic!! I have awful anxiety just thinking about it. My Dr. gave me a 2 mg. Ativan to take. The Dr. told me to take the Ativan one hour before the test. Has anyone taken this dosage for an MRI and is an hour before a good time to take it? I hope someone has taken this med.

Man oh man...I have had ALLL of those experiences too. I've had...well ATTEMPTED an MRI (head/brain) years ago...and like everyone said "DONT OPEN YOUR EYES"...welllll..I peaked...pressed the panic button and tried to slide my way out of that chamber. I don't remember how I did it bc it was too tight to move my arms and pull myself...but all I remember is that I "SHOT MYSELF OUT OF THAT THING". My next MRI was an OPEN MRI...but the test and results weren't as required. Long story short, years later...I'm going tomorrow in a closed one ("the big machine")...and have my Valium to take (never took that before) and my eye mask (no peeking for me). Hope it helps. I'm unsure how the Valium will help, as if it only makes me sleepy...how does that help with my chronic claustrophobia?

I am going in on thursday for a MRI. I've tried going into a tube type but even with valium I couldn't do it. I am scared to death. The, so called open scan, only has the sides open, so to me that is not an open scan. They gave me 4 tabs of Xanax, 2 about 1/2 hour before and 2 later. I am having my neck and lower back scan so I have to go in head first and it going to take 40 min. for each. Has anyone had success taking xanax verses valium? Help me................

I am wondering if it would help people to take an anti-anxiety med during the day before the scan as well as an hour ahead. Seems to me that we freak ourselves out so much worrying about the scan ahead of time, and maybe the meds we take an hour before aren’t enough to handle all those stress hormones.

I agree with the people who say the head restraint is the really hard to deal with. My doc called the tech and radiologist and got them to agree to leave it off. They never used to use those cradles and I never had problems keeping my head still (legs are twitchier for me).

As far as the washcloth goes, I had one slip and cover my nose and mouth — it was really bad. I have a scan tonight, having failed one where I took 15 mg of diazepam last week, so I really hope having no head restraint helps me get through it.

I started off claustrophobic and had an MRI tech lie to me once. He said it would be the last view but kept me in the machine for another 45 minutes, refusing to respond to the panic button or my telling him I couldn’t stand it any longer. Needless to say my MRI claustrophobia has been much worse ever since.

I tried an upright MRI machine in San Jose, CA, and it was somewhat better but not completely, as you’re still surrounded by the machine.

For me, the machine noises sound like I’m hanging in outer space, listening to quasars and planets talking to one another. It helps to imagine that I’m floating in the midst of immense darkness.

Find a place that offers open MRI's. The difference is night and day. And take the valium. On the open mri they let my husband in the room and hold my had the entire time.

had my first experience this morning. lasted 2 min
panicked. going to try a sedative for next attempt Thursday. I hope it works.

I’ve had two MRI’s. The first was about 12 years ago for my knee, and they slapped a wraparound headset on me. It was a TV. I watched ESPN the whole time. The last one, totally different experience. It was for my neck so no headset. First try was a closed MRI. I barely fit in (I’m 6’5” 340 pounds), and flipped out. Second try was an open MRI. No headphones, they just blasted soothing music by boom box. The tech put a Kleenex over my eyes. I felt ok, but the Kleenex fell off my face when he slid me in. I lasted a few minutes and flipped out. Final try was a stand up open MRI. I won’t say it was a breeze, your shoulders getting squeezed is not fun. But they had a TV and earplugs so I was able to put up with the noise and try to follow along with the TV. If that’s an option I would highly recommend it.

Can you go in feet first for a bladder MRI ? and if so how far in do you go?

It’s 2:20 am can’t sleep having MRI in morning... failed 1st attempt by panic after being in machine ( brain and cervical with and without contrast) got Dt to call in Ativan (have never taken it before) rescheduled at different imaging center. I hope this one goes better. Husband coming this time. Wish I could sleep. Will let you know outcome!

Have to have a MRI,actually 2, 1 for 45 minutes and 1 for 20 minutes.
1 hr and 5 mintutes.Not happening. I tried. They strapped my head down and my arms to my side. Never even made it inside. My Dr. prescribed 2mg of Lorazapam to take 1 hr before the MRI. I go 9 a.m.
tomorrow morning. Wish me luck.

P.S. Thanks for all the feed back

Omg! Your response is so my reaction lol. There is no way I can be wrapped up and trapped in that tube at the same time. I hate the headphones as well.

Has anyone ever took 1mg of Xanax before MRI and it help them? I'm so scared and have to be there at 8:00am.

Thank you for all the tips. My MRI is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. I am claustrophobic and scared to death of the cage over your face and head. My pain doc gave me a script for .5 xanax sounds like that may not be enough to help. Hopefull that will help. Also I have those sleep masks for eyes, will check and see if they have any metal . thought that might help . Also liked the idea of the blanket over me, not tucked in that is too confining but over me sounds good. Thanks again.

I am very claustrophobic. A couple of days ago I tried to do an MRI and had to press the panic button almost immediately. This after having been given 0.5mg of Ativan. This was my third try. I want back yesterday with the following preparation and went thru 45min without a glitch. I don't know which had more effect, but probably a combination. 1) 5mg Valium and 90 min before. 5mg additional 15 min before. 2) Small towel over my eyes. Helped with temptation to open eyes and see the confinement. 3) A couple of hours before MRI, I did a "practice session" by putting the towel over my eyes and sliding a chair over my head. The bottom of chair was just inches from my nose. I would occasionally take the towel off and stare at the chair and then put the towel back on. Did this for over an hour. During the MRI, whenever I started to feel antsy, I would just say to myself that I was simply under the chair. 4) Listen to catchy tunes music while under the chair. The catchy tunes kept popping into my brain during the MRI. 5) I told the technician that if I pressed the panic button, it was not for him to come and ask if I was OK....it meant get me out immediately. This worked for me.

I knew I was claustrophobic before I went in but hadn't been in position for it to bother me in several years. Didn't even think about it. Went in joked with techs, (my normal routine when getting stuck by needle), while laying on bench, got helmet put on got the brief about squeeze ball and felt the table move into the tube. I felt the table stop. An went from 0 anxiety to The max anxiety possible. Instantly squeezed the ball and had to come out or else, die or at least destroy the tube. I've had flashbacks every night and a couple of times during day including cold sweats. Doc presc valium 5mg, hope it's will take effect if I'm already anchious when I take it. I can't clear my mind now and it's 12 hours away. Probably won't eat in am will be to nauseated from the stress. Will try to eat banana 1 hour before taking pill. Hope I can sleep tonight. THe wrap thing sounds worse than the tube. wasted my money on the "NEW" weighted blankets that are supposedly great and taking on the market. I keep temp at 68-72 and use only a light sheet on bed. I wonder if a "cool" eye mask would help.

I had an MRI in the past with no problem, so I wasn't expecting one this time. Hoo-boy, did I get that wrong. I made it about 6 inches inside the machine before begging to be let out. I'm planning to go try again with a 1 mg dose of Xanax. The MRI is for a damaged shoulder, which requires additional strapping to hold still. Here are a few thoughts:

1. If possible, have the MRI done in an open style MRY machine. There are a few different types. One is wider, more of a slot than a tube. There is another called an open stand up MRI that leaves your head totally free. Not useful for a head scan, of course, but sounds wonderful for anything neck/shoulder level and below.

2. If you're a large, wide-shouldered person like me, request the biggest, most spacious machine they have. The one they tried to put me in was so tight my shoulders were curling up.

3. Keep your neck unencumbered. They had me put on a set of scrubs that started pulling at my neck when I was scooting up on the table. I hate anything touching my neck and only wear open or v-neck shirts, so this started freaking me out before I even went in the tube.. I would prefer a wraparound scrub like a karate uniform that doesn't confine the neck.

4. Acknowledge your claustrophobia. As a strong guy, I didn't want to admit any weakness. However, I'd been feeling anxious while passing big trucks on the freeway for a while. The towering wall of the trailers feels threatening. I now recognize this as a manifestation of my claustrophobia.

5. Have your doctor prescribe an antianxiety med for the procedure. I'll be making my next attempt with the help of Xanax. The MRI facility calls it self-sedation. In some states, the facility itself can administer the medication.

6. Have a folded cloth placed over your eyes before you're moved into the machine. Out of sight, out of mind may help.

I'd like to thank the author of this article. It was very helpful.

Ed

I have PPMS, and one of my symptoms is discomfort in my left arm. This discomfort becomes agony aflter a few unmoving minutes in the machine.

My MRI's - brain and spine - take a total of up to 45 minutes. I request TWO Mri's, over consecutive days, to make it manageable

I have complex health issues & have had over 27 MRIs, about 1/2 with the dye contrast & frequently of both my brain & spine - so of very long duration. I suffer claustrophobia but had no choice other than to find strategies to overcome my anxiety. Valium didn’t work or me. I consistently go to the same medical practice so they know me; when my name is called I know time passes quickly so I picture myself shortly with scan finished walking back outside. As I feel cold as pain I always wear comfy warm clothes (nothing with any metal, zips or pockets) & request that I be allowed to stay in them & to not wear their gown - which tends to choke around the neck; I ask approximately how long the scan will take so as I have some idea of the timeframe. Lying still on the cold surface for a long time is difficult so I request a cotton blanket over me & I wear socks; a pillow under my knees helps prevent back strain & I always have the music - something light, like Abba! I also ask the attendant to speak to me a couple of times so as I know they’re still there & I request that if I press the buzzer that they don’t necessarily rush in, but answer any concerns. I’ve convinced myself that the noises are beneficial & they stimulate areas normally unreachable to healing; also that the time spent in the scanner is a precious indulgence where I’m free from anyone’s demands, uncontactable & allowed to escape in my mind. Sometimes this escape is to a happy place or sometimes to planning things in intricate detail. I no longer dread an MRI referral - reminding myself that it’s a lot less painful than many tests prescribed & I’ve got through them before! I hope this helps others.

Breast MRI's are the worse for me. You can't cover your eyes with a cloth as you are face down, breasts hanging done and this utterly uncomfortable bed (supposedly) that only fits between your breasts so all your weight is on your breast bone. University of Michigan's machine is tiny too.

I have had them at another hospital who had a larger machine that made me feel less crushed.

I have one Friday, and am dreading it terribly. I failed it last time, they tried to make me put my face down in that massage pillow thing with a mask on. so you cant' breath and oh...look, you get to wear a mask too.

Can you clarify what a 250 mbs dosage of ativan is? Is that 2.5 mg?

Attempted an MRI that was supposed to last 30 minutes but had to quit after 15 and this is after taking Valium. Valium made me a bit sleeping but didn't really relax me enough. With all the drugs out there I can't believe there isn't something better. Honestly, I think a couple of drinks would have worked better. Wish I could get the same thing they use for colonoscopies. That stuff is awesome.

i am having a stupid closed MRI on Sunday. My doctor gave me 3 1 mg. tabs of Ativan but then issues instructions to take only one - stupid. I will not call him just plan to take all 3 mg. - will that be enough???
hope so

liz

ivy, thats what i do i count the minutes he says each step takes, lol. i hate mri's but i know sometimes we have to have them but they are not pleasant and with all the technolo0gy out there, people like us should have other options than a tunnel machine :-)

I am extremely claustrophobic. I have an identical twin and I joke that we had no room in the womb as we were large twins!. Today, I had an MRI on my hip. I took 5 mg Diazapan about 45 mins before the procedure. I took 7.5 mg diazapan with a sip of water 30 mins before the procedure.
My husband helped me change into the hospital gown as I was feeling woozy. The tech put me on the table and placed a heavy blankt on my chest. I was awake and nervous. She instructed me to breath in for a count of 4 then breath out for a count of 4. We had 8 different sessions to do and she counted them down which helped. I got panicky after 30 mins but managed to make it to the end. I will never do this again! I will always travel to an "open" procedure. However, This breathing helped. I am female. 5 ft 3 inches and weigh 155 pounds. The tech said I drifted off to snooze a bit but I don't recall. I hope this info helps anyone. Please try to go for the "open" machine and sedate yourself slightly.

I am having an MRI for my shoulder tomorrow & I am absolutely terrified! I'm supposed to take 5mg valium 1 hour before, another one 15 minutes before, & 1 at time of procedure if needed. Seems like a lot of valium to me!! I thank each and every one of you for your comments- it is so nice to know that I am not alone in my fear.

I am also very claustrophobic and have found that taking 10 mg. of Valium before going into the machine made me relaxed enough to have the hours long MRI, but I would take a bit more next time. I am afraid that I will kill the person who pulls me out of the machine!

Tried it second time with 10mg of Valium. It was slightly better than the first try but managed to get through it. Next time I'll think I'll take a sleeping pill or even drink a beer or two.

One thing that really helped me was getting in a comfortable position. I was able to elevate my head and shoulders and also put a cushion under my knees. Turns out the operator was claustrophobic and was very accommodating.

I've had two MRI's and tried for a third yesterday. The reason I'm seeking help is due to severe back pain. The first two were ok, as I was able to elevate my head a bit - they were looking at my neck and spine. The next one is a brain MRI and I was required to lay completely flat - which I cannot do without stabbing pains. I was told to contact my doctor and get something to assist me in relaxing. My doctor has prescribed Valium 10 and I'm scheduled to try again in two weeks. Hopefully this will do the trick. Thanks for all the suggestions on when to take the meds before the procedure.

That was my EXACT thought. I can't even handle blankets wrapped under my feet at home.

Get a Xanax 250mg pill form you GP, it works wonders, feel a little woosy and just totally relxed, well i did anyway and I was dreading it, took it about 1.5 hours before app and I atually nearly fell asleep in there!! Brilliant

Hi. I will be taking clonazepam for my MRI. I have never taken it before and the pharmacist wasn't too helpful. I was given four 0.5 mg tablets. Someone said you take 2 mg. Do you ever feel sick? I am trying to decide the right does for me.
I have a lot of ear issues (tinnitus and hypocusis) so want to make sure my ear protection is completely in place before going in. So i have to be alert enough to do that. I guess I should do that beforehand. The pharmacist said to take half an hour before, but some of you say like an hour and a half. One shouldn't have to guess about this stuff

I am also claustrophobic, so a swaddling blanket would add insult to injury. Heres three strategies that helped me. 1. I do take a pill to relax me. 2, I sing to myself3. i imagine being on a beach or some other place i love. Ive had more than 10 MRIs. Donst give into the fear.

I have had to do about 30 since 1994. Most have been for brain with contrast so they last more than an hour, and I have the awful face mask. I did the first dozen or so with anxiety but nothing too bad. Then claustrophobia struck and it only gets worse with time. 10 mg of Diazepam allows me to get through them, but just barely. Open MRI helps but have not had access to one in my area for a long time. The best thing for me is to be very open with the tech that I have serious claustrophobia, hate doing them, but have done a lot. I also tell them it's very stressful and difficult for me, but I likely can manage. After the first ten minutes or so, I just keep reminding myself that the torture I've already endured will be wasted if I quit now. I also remind myself that I need to get the results (to get the treatment I need to stay well/alive), and if I don't make it to the end, I'll have to come back and do it again. It's very unpleasant but, the thought of not making it to the end and coming back is worse. Sometimes counting helps. Sometimes intentionally noticing my muscles are tense and purposefully relaxing them helps. Music helps a little. I like it when the tech talks and says now we're doing a five minute session with the banging etc., but I don't ask them to do that, and most don't. I am sure breathing exercises would help but since I really want to keep my head immobile for the best scan, I have never tried that. One note of caution, if you have a stuffed up nose from a cold or something, the post nasal drip form laying your head back for an hour can get bad and aggravate claustrophobia. I would recommend neo-synephrine before in that situation.

Wow, just reading the part about being swaddled in a blanket made my anxiety level go through the roof! I am very claustrophobic and many nights even just laying in bed I have to whip off the blanket because the thought of something being on top of me really freaks me out. When I do the MRI I take Diazepam 5mg or my preferred Lorazepam 1mg (a couple), I wear very loose fitting clothes, I do not wear headphones or cover my eyes or use a blanket (all of that just adds to my fear of being trapped/confined). Even with that there have been a couple times I had to request to be pulled out. MRIs are the toughest for me. I just try to tell myself to put on my big boy pants and get the job done... easier said than done though. :-/

Went in yesturday for a multiphase MRI of the abdomen. This was the 2nd MRI in my life. Since I had experienced CT Scans prior to my first MRI, I thought they were baiscaly the same. The first one was for an arm injury and they put me on my stomach and only gave me ear plugs. I started counting in my head telling myself this will be over soon. After about 5 minutes I hit the button and asked how much longer. When she said about 30 to 40 more minutes, I said no way, and they pulled me out. Put me back in on my back with my head about 2-3" from the top of the tube. Sounded like a I was laying on the hood of a car with the horn blowing. Absoutely one of the worst experiences of my life. When I got out I went straight home and had 2 long island teas and said never again.

So, when they told me a few days ago I needed an MRI of my abdomen I freaked out inside. Told them I did not do well with MRI's and could they perscribe something. They perscribed 10MG of Diazepam (Valium) came in two 5MG pills. I came across this site when searching to find out if I should take 1 or 2 of the pills and got a lot of usefull information. I decided to take both pills about an hour before the proceedure start time. I think I could have waited 30 minutes, because the pills work pretty fast, but they last a while so an hour ahead of time was fine. When I showed up I was upfront and honest with the technician and told them I was claustaphobic, had sinus issues, and a hard time staying still. (When ever I try to be perfectly still I seem to feel every minor itch, stopped up nose whatever and drives me crazy if I can't do something about it). The opening in this MRI was larger, probably had a good 6" or more between my face and the top. Also, since it was an abdomen scan they put me in feet first which left my head in side the tube only about a foot or a little more from the end so could still see out if i tilted the head back. Also gave me earphones with music which was great. They put a belt around my stomach to let them know I was doing what I was told when to breath in and out and hold my breath. With the music earphones the music was not very loud, but neither was the sound of the MRI. The most uncomfortable part was my arms at the side were laying on the uncusioned pard of the table and it was uncomfortable after about 10 minutes (If i did it again I would put something soft under my arms). I think the proceedure lasted about 30 to 40 minutes. The Valium was the life saver for me. Everytime I got an iche or started to feel a need to move I was able to tell myself it's no big deal, the more I stay still the sooner this will be over. I was moved forward and backwards a few times while they were doing the test, but kept my eyes closed so it didn't bother me when they moved me inside a few more inches. Kept my eyes closed most of the time but looked a few times at the ceiling of the tube, but again, thanks to the Valium it didn't seem to bother me. They told me when before the injected the contrast and It was not like the contrast in the CT scan, it was more subtle and I mainly noticed a little metal taste in my mouth for a short duration. I would estimate 20-25 minutes prior the contrast and 10 to 15 minutes after before the test was complete. I was amazed at how much more relaxed I was this time vs my first experience. As another person said, I almost dozed off a couple of times, but about every 5 minutes or so they were asking me to Breath In, Breath Out, Hold my breath. I realize they were doing this because of the area they were scanning so I you are not getting a scan of an area that would require this, I would recomend you ask them to talk to you at least every 10 minutes just for peace of mind.

All in all on a scale of 1 to 10 with my first experience being a 1, I would say this was a solid 6+. If you are anything like me, don't try to be a tuff guy. Ask for the meds. 10MG Valium worked for me (I am 5'9" 175 lbs). Hope my story helps someone else as much as all the other stories helped me.

First, I don't have MS, I empathize with you. I found the thread by searching. I've had several MRI's and never freaked out over several years. I've had many other scans, I'm always a trooper. I was always provided headphone music, and two days ago in a different scan I even had a choice of music. I've always been informed by the system "this segment of the scan is 4 minutes", "this segment of the scan is 3 minutes", and so on. I was given some sort of visual goggle thing and saw a beautiful series of images "painted" in 3D. Obviously the embellishments for patient comfort has evolved, it was almost enjoyable. Today I had an MRI in a trailer in a parking lot behind a major medical facility . . no sound, no updating information, no visual distraction, and then I freaked 30 seconds before the completion. The scan was completed enough for diagnostics which in my case is an orthopedic issue. The worst part was being yelled at "there was only 5 seconds left", there was only 30 seconds" left. Oh well . . . pick your facility wisely, and inquire.

I had to have a Brain Scan today with and without contrast. I lasted 5 minutes. I had earplugs in, pads on both ears and it still sounded like someone was playing drums in my ears. The techs didn't tell me when they were coming and then boom, it made me flinch and they were like, don't move. Well damn well tell me when you're going to do it! AND they had a repeating song that sounded like it was from the Silence of the Lambs movie, not to mention I felt like Hanibal Lector in that damn mask. I bailed. There has got to be a better way. With all the latest advances in technology, you shouldn't have to be put in a coffin like tube with a mask strapped to your face while hearing the loudest noises known to man. COME ON!

I hate mri’s I find the best thing is to take Diazapam. When I go into the tube I close my eyes and then go through the alphabet of boys names..Archie,Barry,Colin etc then girls names then flowers then animals. Then countries. Before you finish you are out.

Having an mri of my brain at 5:30 this evening - yes, on Saturday. Taking 10mg of valium 30 minutes before. I've had 4 mri's previously, but was fully intubated and anesthetized for all of them because I am so severely claustrophobic. Very nervous about being awake for this one!

I also have claustrophobia when it comes to MRIs
Valium 10 mg along with slow deep breathing techniiques has helped me immensely and having it done in an open machine - which looks more like a cat scan machine really did the trick for me .'
I started the self calming deep breathing in the car on the way to the exam. ( of course my daughter was the driver) i took the med when they told me we were 30 minutes out the test. The staff was so supportive and considerate. And i was so relieved and proud of myself afterward ! I recommend the breath work .

Great to hear from people like me.. I am claustrophobic, period. 10 years ago I wasn't, then a closed tibe MRI at a local hospital. Strapped in, sent into the tube, more than 45 minutes went by.. no operator. Yelled, screamed, tried to break lose and crawl out but straps were to tight.. Operator went to lunch and had left me inside the tube.. when he came back no apology just a shrug and a well next time get a sedative.. I could have easily die as my panic level exceed anything I have ever done in life including being trapped under decks in an oil fire. I will never go into a closed MRI again.. Lorazapam maybe about 3-4 mg. maybe open MRI. Actually reading these comments I started to get remeberances of that fear, sadly I need the MRI.

UK 2024 - I have been claustrophobic for over 20 years (I'm 35). After my child 3 years ago I've gotten worse. I need a night light in the bedroom as i need see the shape of 4 walls. Doesn't matter how big the room is, if I can't see a light shape of the walls I freak out and can't sleep. I;'ve had about 8 MRI scans over my time due to a shoulder injury (tear) causing me chronic pain) and mouth surgery due to vascular malfation where is swells up randomly and they are trying to kill it by shrinking or removing it but it grows back. My first MRI scan I crawled out of the machine but eventually managed to get through the 20 minutes with someone in the room holding my hand. I've had to fight with staff to let someone in the room with me for almost an hour before they allow it. I tell them that heightens my anxiety, the back and forth and begging and hysterically crying. It must be in my records how much of a nightmare I am so just let them in when I first state. I now call up in advance to say someone needs to be in the room and I tell them I will freak out so give extra time. The last MRI scan was in a new machine where its like a donut and has a opening on the other side. I started crying and having a panic attack in the room when they ask you the pre questions. My sister was allowed in with me without a fight which helped. I got in the machine and only my forehead got in and i screamed the place down. It now feels like the machine roof drops and is at my nose. People never understand that feeling but I physically see it lowering ( it's not). The only way I managed it after 4 attempts of in and out of the machine was my sister was allowed to put her arm in from the other side and hold my hand. I've asked to be sedated and for stronger medication. I'm just given diazepam which does nothing but they wont increase the dose. They only give me 2 or 5mg. Might just have to take a few extra myself.

I've just cancelled my MRI today as no one could come with me. Heres hoping I make the next one.