The instructions to receive an MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, are typically comfortingly straightforward: relax and remain still. While the latter can be challenging for anyone, the former can, to some patients, seem like a challenge too large to overcome.
If you suffer from claustrophobia, you’re far from alone. Around 11% of Americans share your fear of enclosed spaces. The design of an MRI unit with its cylindrical bore can understandably make claustrophobic patients feel anxious.
Whether your level of discomfort is incapacitating or mild, there is still good news. Proven self-help techniques and treatment options can help you navigate situations you previously thought impossible. If your doctor has determined these images are crucial to your care, we are here to help you follow through with the exam while conquering your fears.
Empower yourself: Learn everything about the exam
First of all, let’s look at what the exam entails. The more you know, the better prepared you will be. Knowledge is empowering and has a way of easing any concerns. Some of the things that you worry about may turn out not to be true.
Making you comfortable
A modern, traditional MRI machine does feature a tunnel, but it’s open on both sides, well lit, and wider than what you may have seen in the past. An experienced technician will first make sure you are comfortable (Would you like a pillow and a blanket? What kind of music or radio channel would you like to listen to, if any?) and explain the exam step by step. Have any last-minute questions or concerns? Don’t hesitate to ask.
It’s painless
During the exam, your technician will be in a room next-door but in constant touch to guide you through the procedure. You may be told to breathe in, to hold your breath for a moment, and to exhale. Other than the occasional banging noise, you will feel no bodily sensation from the magnetic field and radio waves that capture the high-resolution images of your internal organs.
Yes, what about the noise?
The noise, a loud clicking or banging sound, is created when an electric current is sent through a coiled wire or electromagnet. It’s a normal part of the procedure and only lasts for short periods at a time during the 20- to 30-minute-long exam.
More techniques to manage MRI claustrophobia
In addition to asking questions, listening to music, and learning the details of the exam, there are more ways to manage your MRI claustrophobia. No matter what feeling arises, remind yourself that you’re in control and that the technicians will greet your anxiety with compassion. They have seen other patients just like you and know how to help.
A few simple exercises may be all you need to feel comfortable during the exam.
- Focus on breathing: The way you breathe has a significant effect on the nervous system. Breathing deeply, with a slow and steady inhalation to exhalation ratio, signals our parasympathetic nervous system to calm the body down.
- Cover your face: By keeping your eyes closed or covering your face with a towel or washcloth, it is easier for your mind to imagine a different space.
- Use your own technique: Whether it’s thinking of your “happy space” or using aromatherapy, you can use any calming technique that has worked in the past.
- Count: The act of counting to interrupt a stress response is closely related to breathing and meditation techniques. Counting can help you relax because it gives your mind something to think about other than anxiety.
- Bring support: Do you have a trusted friend or family member who knows how to soothe your nerves? As long as COVID-restrictions allow, you can bring someone for emotional support.
A therapist can help, too
If you need more to overcome MRI claustrophobia, consider seeking the help of a therapist. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an established approach for anxiety disorders and phobias. Studies have shown that patients with claustrophobia experience a remission in as little as five to ten CBT sessions.
Another approach which recently emerged is virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET). It seeks to decrease the intensity of the stress response you have to situations, thoughts, or memories that provoke anxiety or fear. VRET can safely mimic such situations by simulating your real-life experience.
Questions? Please reach out
The MRI images that your doctor ordered may be an important step toward your future health and well-being. If MRI claustrophobia is making you feel anxious about an upcoming appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. At University Medical Imaging, we are passionate about helping you feel comfortable and at ease.