Post-op MRI

[nmk816]

Do any of you have a hard time going through MRIs? I'm about 1 1/2 years post-op and am supposed to get an MRI in May. I'm dreading it because I can't take the vibrations caused by the MRI. Plus with herniated discs throughout my spine, it's hard to lay still for that long on such a hard surface. My NS doesn't understand and thinks that I'm just a drama queen. He wants me to get brain and full spine MRI. How do you deal with this?

[selmaS]

  Hi and welcome back to the Chiari forum.

I read your profile and saw you were here b4...wondering what your sign on was?

Also, I would never have thought an upright MRI could help those that have anxiety getting one....I never had an upright so, not sure what it would feel like.... so great idea!!

I am sorry you have to start over again....Did your Drs rule out POTS, EDS and a few of the other related conditions? Glad you chose to come back and share your 2nd journey with us.

[AmyFLSNY]

Hi,
I can sympathize with you. I am 4 years post-op and just recently started seeing a neurologist again because I am still having issues.  One of my problems is that I still have really bad bouts of vertigo when I lie flat.  I recently went for another MRI, and I had valium for sedation like I've had in the past, but this time it didn't matter. When I laid down on the table, I had a severe episode before we even started and I couldn't continue.  It was awful, and embarrassing because like you said, everyone thinks you're either crazy or being a drama queen.  
My solution was that there is an upright MRI place nearby.  They did the MRI while I was sitting- it was SO much easier. See if you can find an upright MRI office, even if you have to travel to get to it.  Also, make sure that the insurance company covers it. My dr's office got it approved before I went. Good luck!

[Elisaandbucky]

I will also recommend looking into sedation. MRI machines are a scary place - especially for you if you're in pain. The only requirement with having sedation is that someone must drive you home. Receptionists at my facility actually ask me who I am with before I am called in. I hope you can get the opportunity to have the test in a facility with technicians who are compassionate and kind.

[selmaS]

  Hi I do not have either issue in a MRI...at first I was stressed out but the more of them I had the more comfortable I got with them....I keep my eyes closed and shut out the noise...I would take Mel's advice on getting sedated as it helps many that do have issues like hers and yours....hope it is helpful and your Drs comply.

[Mel5056]

Oh you bet i do but mine is i am severly claustophobic.  I have to be sedated in order to do them anymore.  But my issue isn't from pain.  although i must admit the last place i went specifically asked if my issue was pain or closed spaces.  The sedation worked great for me but not sure if you have pain with it.  I wonder if you called a few places and asked what they can provide to help.  Or would they require you to only do one at a time due to pain.  Good luck wishing you the best.