Good Healthcare Requires Treatment of Your Mind, Body, and Soul

Tips To Help You Feel More Comfortable During An MRI Scan

8 January 2019 by Hugh Larson

MRI scans are very important in testing for a lot of different medical issues and diseases. If you are scheduled for an MRI, it's important to get your test to help either rule things out or to diagnose you. Without this medical test, it can be harder to properly diagnose you. If you aren't comfortable being in a confined space, you may have a few issues getting through your test. Read on for tips to help make you feel more comfortable during this process.

Tell Your Physician You're Claustrophobic

Let your physician know ahead of time you are claustrophobic, or even if you aren't sure if you are, let them know that you may not feel comfortable in the small tube. If you tell your physician ahead of time, they may be able to give you something to help you relax. Without this medication, you may not get through the test (which can take some time). Without the test, you may not be able to be properly diagnosed, or you may have to come back to have the test taken again.

Listen To Music

Ask if music can be played while you're in the MRI machine, or if you are able to wear headphones of some sort. Music may help soothe you enough so you can lie still until the test is over. Ask if you can pick your music as well. Your taste may not be the same as others. A book on tape can also help you relax as you listen. 

Try To Nap

Keep your eyes closed during the test and try your best to take a nap to help you relax. Keeping your eyes closed will also help you so you don't see how close the machine is to you. You may be able to have a blindfold or towel placed over your eyes, which may also help you to relax.

Bring A Friend Along

Bring a friend with you to help you relax. Your friend may not be able to be in the room with you, but this person can be there in support before you go in and drive you to and from your test. Having a friend with you and knowing they will be there for you when you get out can be helpful in relaxing you.

If you aren't comfortable being in enclosed spaces, then an MRI scan may be a difficult one for you. Use the tips above to help relax you and talk to your physician about other tips that can help you as well. For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Kenai Peninsula Imaging Center, LLC.

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