“This article offers patients dealing with claustrophobia in MRI exams advice and support including preparation, open MRI benefits, calming techniques and what to expect both during and after your scan.”
At Encino Open MRI, we are aware that having an MRI might be daunting particularly if you have claustrophobia in MRI environments. You are not alone. Many of our patients are equally concerned. We have so created a peaceful, encouraging atmosphere meant to help you relax and enable you to get ready with confidence.
Understanding Claustrophobia and MRI Anxiety
More than just a fear of confined environments is claustrophobia. Some people get nausea, fast heart rate, perspiration, or panic. Within the framework of an MRI scan, enclosed tunnels, loud noises, and stillness might aggravate this pain.
However, there are strategies to lessen that anxiety; we are here to support you at all stages.
Know What to Expect?
Often the cause of fear is the unknown. Knowing the MRI process will enable you to feel more under control. Usually, this is what occurs:
- You sleep on a padded table.
- The table advances gradually into the scanner.
- The machine hummers or taps rhythmically.
- The scan lasts anything between fifteen and sixty minutes.
During the scan you will not feel anything. There is no suffering; you can always talk with our technician.
Also see Overcoming Claustrophobia During an MRI: Tips for a Stress-Free Scan
Inquire About Available Open MRI Solutions
We have open MRI scanners designed especially to minimize anxiety. Systems like these:
- Have open arms.
- Give more air flow and room.
- Let you view out during the scan.
Many patients find this configuration far more tolerable than conventional closed units. Ask whether open MRI would be appropriate for your operation when you book your appointment.
Learn Relaxation Strategies
Try relaxation techniques both before and during the scan. These could comprise:
- Deep breathing.
- Guided meditation.
- Visualization (like seeing a serene beach).
- Techniques of muscle relaxation.
Practicing these ahead of time will enable you to feel more ready on your test day.
Bring Support with You
Ask whether a friend or relative might go to the appointment with you to provide support. Sometimes it makes a great difference to know someone is close by. They can comfort you both before and after your scan even though they cannot be in the room.
Speak With Us Regarding Sedation
We work with your healthcare practitioner to provide light sedative choices if your anxiety becomes uncontrollable. This can include oral meds meant to soothe you.
Talk about this with us ahead of time to help us to arrange with your doctor and guarantee safety.
Utilize Distractions
We can offer headphones featuring soothing music during the scan. A few patients bring their preferred playlists or listen to guided meditations. Others want earbuds to help to reduce noise.
Select the choice that best fits you.
Plan Intelligent
Plan your MRI around a time when you are least likely to be hurried or under pressure. Early morning visits usually go rather well. Bring warm clothes, then arrive a few minutes early to relax.
We want wait times short so you will be scanned right away.
Continue Corresponding with Us
Tell our team how you are feeling at each level. Describe your worries to us before your scan. You will have a call button in your palm during the scan to instantaneously communicate with our technologist.
We also often reassure you and provide breaks if necessary.
After The Scan, What Should One Expect?
After the scan, you could experience relief, weariness, perhaps pride mixed with other emotions. That is ordinary. Unless you have undergone sedation, most patients can resume regular activities immediately.
The initial encounter will make you feel more ready should you ever require another scan in the future.
Tales From Our Patients
Many of our patients with MRI and claustrophobia have been able to easily complete their tests. One patient remarked, “I was somewhat anxious, but the open machine made it tolerable. Though I never thought I could, I did.
Still another shared: “The personnel took me through every step. I felt watched over and protected. It made all the difference.
These tales help us to understand the reason behind our method.
How Different Is Our Facility?
Encanto Your comfort is considered in open MRI design. Our imaging areas are large, bright, spotless. Our personnel receive training in patient care as well as in imaging.
We invest time to listen.
We also routinely upgrade our equipment to match developments in precision, comfort, and speed that enhance society.
Final Checklist Just Before Your Visit
- Verify your scheduled time and location.
- Wear cozy, comfy clothes free of metal.
- Bring insurance cards and identity cards.
- Ask the last of your questions.
- Work on your strategies of relaxation.
- Tell us ways we might help you.
With You From Beginning to Finish
From your first call to the point your scan is over, our whole staff is dedicated to ensure your experience goes as seamless as it should. Our aim is not only to provide photographs but also to carefully and compassionately assist your health.
Conclusion
Living with anxiety or MRI claustrophobia claustrophobic scans is difficult. But they become under control and even empowering with the correct atmosphere, support, and preparedness. At Encino Open MRI, we mix innovative technology, trusted service, and a sincere awareness of your experience. Allow us to patiently, respectfully, and with support you can trust on help you negotiate it.
