Many people are claustrophobic, and the thought of an MRI scan is enough to send them over the edge of fear and anxiety.

1.If available at your location, ask the receptionist to schedule you in the open MRI. It is not literally open, but the tube size is much bigger than the traditional one, which is very uncomfortable, even for someone without claustrophobia.

2.Ask your doctor for a mild sedative. When you're being referred for the MRI scan, you can ask your doctor. You will probably need to take it beforehand, so make sure you have someone who can drive you to and from the appointment.



3.Ask for your family member to be with you holding your hand, or your foot during the exam. There is no reason why they cannot be there unless they are pregnant or have metal implants in their body such as a pacemaker or aneurysm clips.

4.Bring a CD or tape with you of your favorite music or recording to listen to.

5.If you don't have music, ask the MRI staff to provide you with a set of headphones and the radio station of your choice. Normally, only FM stations are available in an MRI suite.

6.Ask for a washcloth to set over your eyes before you begin.

7.Ask the technologist to talk to you between each set of pictures and keep you updated on how you are doing and how much time is left.

8.Think of someplace other than where you are at.