Fear of MRI

[Jennifer9148525]

Hello - I am a 26-year-old female and I recently saw my primary physician because I've had spells of numbness and tingling in my left arm and left leg. She suggsted I have lab work done and go for an MRI because it sounded like it could be MS. My lab work came back fine. I went to have the MRI and was prescribed Valium 10 mg. because of being nervous and claustrophobic. Well, the Valium didn't work, and when I found out I had to be in the tube for at least 45 minutes and almost all of the way in, I panicked and couldn't do it. Plus the stuff that they strapped around my head and face bothered me. I don't know what to do. I have a neurology appointment at the end of the month, but I'm afraid he will say my only option is to have the MRI and I just can't do it unless they were to knock me out. Any other ways this can be dealt with?

[Jennifer9148525]

Yes, I have heard of the open MRI's as well and how they aren't as helpful. I just know I cannot do it though. There is no way I can lay there for that long almost all the way inside of a tube. I don't know what to do. I care about what's wrong with me, but I just wish there was another way to do it. I already deal with an anxiety disorder and have for many years now, so this is especially difficult. Thanks for your responses.

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

It might be best for you to consult a psychologist or therapist first to help you deal with you claustrophobia before undergoing the MRI.

An MRI, although not diagnostic in itself, could provide important findings that would help or rule out a diagnosis of MS, which is why it has to be done.

Hope this helps.

[patsy10]

There are "open" MRI's but I have heard they are not as accurate.