MRI anxiety

[jeudyth]

I really need an mri for my back.  I tried today in an "open" machine. Anticipated a problem so took 5 mg valium before procedure.  Test had to be aborted because I had excess saliva, causing gagging and choking.  I'm thinking that was probably stress related.  I rescheduled for next week, but am already a little freaky just thinking about it.  Any suggestions?

[Stephen898]

I am one who is claustrophobic. I had to have an MRI done on my neck and brain and could not go through with it even with the one they consider open. Having the cage over my head and the disc inches in front of my face made me very panicky. I also assume that having a neck and head MRI is a more difficult MRI to deal with if you are claustrophobic. I could never make it through a MRI tube awake. As you said someone with: phobias are not something you can simply put aside. I was able to get one done using a sit down machine where the disc are on the sides of you and did it without a sedative. I used to feel embarrassed telling doctors I couldn't go through it, but knowing so many people experience this I now have no problem telling someone. I also found that most technicians are very understanding of this. I wanted to commend you on your understanding towards those who experience this.

[RubyWitch]

EXCELLENT!
WONDERFUL!
GOOD FOR YOU!
CONGRATULATIONS!

I am SO glad you didn't cancel..........as you said, it would just postpone the inevitable...........and now it's over, hopefully they found the problem, and soon you will be as good as new!

I hope you'll let us know how you're doing and while I don't want to burst your incredible bubble of accomplishment, I think I should gently remind you that it's best to "never say never!"

WELL DONE!
Peace
Greenlydia

[jeudyth]

Done!   More sedation, mental removal and visualization....so glad it's over with.  I thought about canceling, but that would just postpone the inevitable.

The medical staff were wonderful -- actually maybe *too* solicitous.  But, whatever -- it's over and I'm never gonna do it again. :-)

So grateful for this forum, it was really helpful.

[RubyWitch]

You're most welcome if my words helped you in some small way. I really do think talking with your doctor is the smartest way to go. Phobias are not something you can simply put aside, and your doctor should be very aware of that.
If he has ordered an MRI, then there is something seriously going on with your back and the information that will be gained by this test is incredibly important in how to move forward in helping you.
If that help means a more powerful anti-anxiety medication or even concious sedation, then it absolutely needs to be considered.
Do not be afraid to stand up for yourself.
Let me know how it went, OK?
Peace
Greenlydia

[jeudyth]

thanks for your response -- I'm working on it in my head, and will probably take you up on suggestion to see my dr again

[RubyWitch]

I'd suggst speaking with your doctor before the next test date. If your claustraphobia is really intense, you may need something stronger than diazepam which they could give you there as long as you have someone to drive you home.
Your fear is very common. Working in a hospital, we sent people for MRIs all the time and some of them had to be put completely under because it is necessay, for accurate results, that you remain absolutely still.
Your reaction sounds totally stress related and even tho the test was "aborted," don't think they aren't going to charge you for it.
I can relate to your fear, but finding out what is wrong with your back is important.........discuss a stronger anti-anxiety med, keep your eyes shut tight and just get in there and do it!  It's not easy, I know that. Make sure the tech(s) doing the MRI are aware of your anxiety and have them talk to you while your in the machine. A good tech will be able to keep you calm, explain all the weird noises and let you know exactly how much longer it's going to take.
I know you can do this! If I can, you can.
Try to focus on the test being over, and when it is, they will know exactly what's wrong with your back and how to fix it. That is worth a few minutes of being spooked, right?
Let me know how it went, OK? I"m pulling for ya!
Peace
Greenlydia