Aa
What can I do
I went to have a MRI Head and I/AC c and s contrast//Draw Creatinine and freak out the minute I went inside with somethig to keep my head from moving and could not do it.My doctors nurse tried to get an open air mri but was told they need more than imaging so I am to try again with a sedative but I am already having attacks just thinking about it and afraid the valium won't work.I have had GAD and panic attacks for many years.I can't seem to get my racing thoughts under control even at home.Any Ideas?
Actually, nothing is set in stone when it comes to these procedures. You'd be surprised at the lengths we will go to to make sure a patient feels more comfortable. If a person explains to the staff their history of anxiety and asks ahead of time if a family member or friend can accompany them in the procedure room, it may be permitted, within the guidelines obviously. It NEVER hurts to ask.
Even the strictest rules can be bent at times, obviously the most important goal is getting the test done, and sometimes that takes some creativity on the part of the medical team. They appreciate a patient calling ahead of time and trying to make provisions for themselves to make the procedure more bearable.
It's best to advise the staff ahead of time of any special considerations, and any concerns you have, anxiety obviously being a big one. They see it every day, so don't be afraid to bring it up.
Even the strictest rules can be bent at times, obviously the most important goal is getting the test done, and sometimes that takes some creativity on the part of the medical team. They appreciate a patient calling ahead of time and trying to make provisions for themselves to make the procedure more bearable.
It's best to advise the staff ahead of time of any special considerations, and any concerns you have, anxiety obviously being a big one. They see it every day, so don't be afraid to bring it up.
I didn't know that. My brother-in-law, a senior, was allowed to have my
sister at the foot of the MRI because of his fears. She needed to follow
the same rules as he did as a patient. Maybe things have changed.
I'm sorry about that.
sister at the foot of the MRI because of his fears. She needed to follow
the same rules as he did as a patient. Maybe things have changed.
I'm sorry about that.
In addition, it is inappropriate from a safety standpoint for anyone to be in the room touching you during the procedure, as nice as that may be.
First of all request a 3T machine, the latest. The machine is faster. Up to five to ten times faster. This means less time in the tube. Secondly, close your eyes while you are OUTSIDE the tube and don't open them until the procedure is over.
First of all request a 3T machine, the latest. The machine is faster. Up to five to ten times faster. This means less time in the tube. Secondly, close your eyes while you are OUTSIDE the tube and don't open them until the procedure is over.
Regarding the MRI, I don't know if this was your first one or first try, but
there are a few things you can do. It is not easy when you are anxious,
but knowing a couple of tricks might help.
First, did you know that you can have someone come in with you and sit
at the foot of the MRI so that you can feel their hand on your leg or foot.
It can help in knowing you are not alone in the room or in the tube.
Another thing is bringing in your own music or relaxation tape. Something
you tune out to at home. Having them talk with you through the mike can help also. Telling you how long it will take and then with each session done, telling you when you are half way done and when you are coming into the home stretch. It takes away the anxiety of "not knowing" where you are at, time wise, in the test. It all else fails, then you may need
sedation, but as whisperwolf said, you will need someone to drive you home. I totally understand what you are feeling, it is not easy but apparently needs to be done. Good Luck in picking something that may work for you.
there are a few things you can do. It is not easy when you are anxious,
but knowing a couple of tricks might help.
First, did you know that you can have someone come in with you and sit
at the foot of the MRI so that you can feel their hand on your leg or foot.
It can help in knowing you are not alone in the room or in the tube.
Another thing is bringing in your own music or relaxation tape. Something
you tune out to at home. Having them talk with you through the mike can help also. Telling you how long it will take and then with each session done, telling you when you are half way done and when you are coming into the home stretch. It takes away the anxiety of "not knowing" where you are at, time wise, in the test. It all else fails, then you may need
sedation, but as whisperwolf said, you will need someone to drive you home. I totally understand what you are feeling, it is not easy but apparently needs to be done. Good Luck in picking something that may work for you.
Ask the Physician who ordered the MRI to give you a prescription for Ativan for before your procedure. You WILL be groggy, so you must have someone drive you there and home, but the medication will help you relax. Follow the directions very carefully.
Hope this helps and may you enjoy good health.
Hope this helps and may you enjoy good health.
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