An MRI is sometimes needed so that your doctor can see areas of your body that other examinations won’t allow. However, you might be claustrophobic, which can make having this type of imaging scan a bit more difficult. Fortunately, there are some tips for reducing the anxiety that you feel while you’re in the machine as well as a few details that you should keep in mind that your doctor likely won’t inform you about.
Even though you’re in an enclosed space, an mri imaging kenai ak facility can be loud. There are banging sounds that might make you think that the machine is going to fall apart. However, these sounds are only the large cameras and other components that take pictures of your body moving around in the machine. You can wear earbuds to block out the sounds if they make you feel more comfortable. Sedation is an option to consider as well, especially for children.
Most procedures can be completed in a short time, usually less than 30 minutes. However, if your doctor needs to see numerous details or there is a concern about a certain area of your body, then an MRI can last for a bit longer. Take a trip to the bathroom before the scan, and try to eat a snack so that you’re comfortable while in the machine. If you become anxious, you can close your eyes to try to block out the sounds that you hear and so that you don’t see the inside of the machine.
Leave all of your jewelry at home or with someone else who is with you at the time of your appointment. Any metal can have an impact on the MRI. If there are any permanent pieces of metal in your body or if you have any tattoos, you need to let the technician know in order to better prepare for the scan. You should also avoid wearing any kind of makeup as this can interact with the results of the scan as well. When you’re in the machine, you might feel warmer than you did before the procedure. This is normal and can be caused by increased levels of anxiety and by being in the enclosed space.
In the event that you move during the scan and the image isn’t clear, then you might need to have it performed again. Magnetic waves are used during an MRI. This is important to consider because it’s not the same thing as a CT scan that uses X-rays to take images of your body. Both scans offer a detailed look for your doctor to determine if there are any issues that need to be treated or that need to be monitored in the future. Talk to the technician about what to expect from the MRI and how soon you’ll know your results. This can also help to decrease your anxiety as you know a bit more about what the machine is like. If possible, talk to your doctor about an open MRI if it’s available in your area.
