MRI scans are one of the best diagnostic procedures to diagnose all types of medical problems.
For several patients, MRI scans may be an anxiety-inducing experience and may trigger feelings of claustrophobia whilst being scanned in a confined, enclosed space. Some patients may even worry about what happens during an MRI and what to expect. It's, therefore, necessary to prepare well in advance before attending your appointment.
Here are some top tips on how to reduce MRI anxiety, whether this is your first MRI or an experience you’ve had before.
1. View our 360 MRI tour in advance
Viewing the machine in advance will help prepare you for what to expect and help reduce the fear of anxiety when entering the machine. Modern MRI scanners have wider openings and include shorter scan times than previously. Our state-of-the-art MRI scanners are fully lit, open at both ends and, feature advanced comfort for patients during the scan ensuring a more relaxed, fast, and entertaining experience. The MRI scanner can make loud and strange noises whilst taking your scan images but you will be issued with earphones and/or earplugs to reduce the noise. To help you feel more comfortable, we will use pads, cushions, and supports. It is important to be as relaxed as possible from the beginning to help you stay completely still throughout the scan.
You can view a 360 tour of our conventional MRI scanner here.
2. Educate yourself on what to expect
One of the best ways to reduce fear is to learn as much as you can about the topic. Educate yourself on how safe the MRI is, read about the procedure and what to expect on the day and, watch videos of MRI scans. The Radiographer will explain what is happening before the scan and answer any questions you may have. During the scan, there will be an intercom for you to speak to the Radiographer through to make sure you are ok and you will also be given a tiny device with a button to hold during the scan. Simply squeeze this and a member of staff will be straight in to stop the scan.
3. Control your breathing
Controlling your breathing is one of the most important and effective ways to relax. Close your eyes, breathe, and try to relax throughout the scan by practicing mindfulness. Take slow, long, deep breaths to help clear your mind and allow you to concentrate all your attention and energy on one thing. As you breathe in and out, count to 10, and then slow down your breathing gradually to bring your state of mind to a calm and peaceful state.
4. Listen to your favourite music
Throughout your MRI with us, you can listen to your favourite music to relax during the scan. Simply bring along a CD or music player so we can play the music you like throughout your scan. Choose soothing music or a peaceful podcast to help take your mind off the scan and ease your thoughts.
Our Open Upright scanners also allow you to watch Television during the scan, so you can take your mind off the procedure.
5. Wear a sleeping mask
How often are you given the opportunity to lie down, close your eyes, and take time out to relax? If you are worried about enclosed spaces, wear a sleeping mask over your eyes so you will not be able to look around and think about the confined space of the room.
Get the diagnosis you need at an affordable price
We offer a variety of scans including MRI, Ultrasound, and Echocardiograms. With over 50 locations across the UK, we offer convenient and affordable appointments including same day, evening, and weekend appointments. Our Open MRI scanners are an alternative to a traditional MRI and offer optimal image quality, available at Fitzrovia, Leeds, and Birmingham.