Overcoming MRI Anxiety: Tips for Staying Calm During a Scan

MRI scans are a routine part of medical care and they can offer unmatched insights about your health. But if you’ve never had an MRI before, the idea of entering a loud, confined space can make you feel uneasy. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to stay calm and have a more comfortable experience. The first step to overcoming MRI anxiety is understanding how these machines work and what to expect from your exam.

How Do MRI Scanners Work?

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam creates highly detailed images of the body. This noninvasive technique uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create high-resolution images of soft tissue, muscle, and other internal body structures. It can even measure blood flow to your brain, heart, or other parts of the body. Unlike some other medical imaging techniques like X-rays, MRIs don’t use ionizing radiation.

MRI machines are very large tube-shaped devices that usually have their own room. During an exam, a patient lies on a table that slides into the machine. The MRI’s powerful magnets and radio waves interact with the body’s atoms, then translate the signals into a clear image for a doctor to review.

Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County has the area’s only large-bore MRI. This type has a wider opening than average MRI machines, so we can accommodate people who need more room and help reduce feelings of claustrophobia.

What to Expect from an MRI Scan

Before your MRI, your doctor will explain the procedure, its purpose, how long the test will last, and how you should prepare. Depending on the type and purpose of your medical imaging, your doctor will provide specific instructions about what you can and cannot eat or drink before the MRI.

Because MRIs use magnets, you will need to remove your jewelry, glasses, hearing aids, and other metallic items to avoid side effects or injury. If you’re pregnant or have a medical device like a pacemaker, tell your doctor before the scan.

During the exam, you’ll be asked to lie on a narrow table and remain still as the machine completes the scan. The MRI machine does not move and it won’t touch you, but it does make a loud noise. You won’t feel anything other than subtle vibrations as the MRI machine works.

Most likely, the only thing you’ll be asked to do is lie as still as you can. Tests can last between 15 and 90 minutes, depending on the images your doctor needs. Moving or fidgeting can cause blurry images and extend the duration of your scan. For some types of imaging, the technologist may ask you to follow simple commands, like holding your breath to get clearer images.

Why are MRI Machines So Loud?

The first time you receive an MRI, you might be surprised by how noisy they are. MRI machines beep and generate loud sounds up to 130 decibels in volume. These sounds are caused by magnetic coils rapidly switching on and off, electrical currents, and vibrations. This is normal, but it can be a little unsettling the first time you hear it.

10 Tips to Reduce MRI Anxiety and Stay Calm

The more you know about the MRI process, the calmer you’ll feel when it’s time for your scan.

1. Start Your Day as Usual

If your doctor says it’s OK to eat before your MRI exam, choose a normal, healthy meal. Anxiety can upset your stomach, so eating comforting food will help keep your stomach settled. Ask your doctor for details about how to prepare for your exam, including specific medications you should or should not take before an MRI.

2. Remember You’re Not Alone

The MRI technologist will not leave you alone during the scan, and you can bring a friend or family member to support you. They won’t be able to enter the MRI machine room with you, but you’ll know they’re waiting for you. You’ll have access to a call button while you’re inside the MRI machine, so if you have an emergency or feel too anxious, you can always press the button for help.

3. Practice Breathing Exercises

Rapid, irregular, or very deep breathing can affect MRI image quality, so it’s best to take slow, relaxed breaths. If anxiety is making it difficult to breathe normally, try specific breathing exercises. They seem simple, but these powerful techniques can improve mindfulness and relaxation and have been shown to help reduce stress.

Box breathing is a popular technique. To practice box breathing, inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, exhale for four counts, hold for four counts, and repeat. Not only do these soothing breathing techniques help keep you relaxed, they’re also a good way to pass the time while you wait for the MRI scan.

4. Listen to Music

Your technologist may provide MRI-safe headphones so you can listen to music during the exam. It might be hard to hear the lyrics during the scan, but music can be a great distraction — as long as you resist the urge to dance.

5. Wear Earplugs

Not interested in listening to music during the exam? Earplugs can help mute the sounds of the MRI machine, protect your hearing, and reduce stress.

6. Wear an Eye Mask

The inside of an MRI machine is not very interesting to look at, but you can wear an eye mask to help block out lights and other visual distractions.

7. Ask for a Blanket

The MRI scanner’s superconductors need to stay cool, so if you start feeling chilly, you can ask the technologist for a blanket.

8. Let Your Mind Wander

Unless you’re getting a functional MRI, or fMRI, that specifically measures your brain activity during guided tasks, you’re not expected to keep your mind focused on anything specific. This would be a great time to plan a vacation, practice your multiplication tables, or let your imagination run wild.

9. Treat Yourself

After your MRI exam, consider rewarding yourself for a job well done. Thinking about those incentives can be a great distraction, too.

10. Consider Medication

If you have severe claustrophobia or anxiety, you may wish to ask your doctor about a prescription sedative. Don’t self-medicate before your exam.

Get Ready for Advanced Medical Imaging

With the right mindset and knowledge about what to expect, your next MRI scan can be a comfortable experience. If you’re practicing these calming relaxation techniques, your biggest hurdle might be boredom!

The Imaging Center team at Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County uses the most advanced equipment in the area. If you have more questions about our state-of-the-art medical imaging equipment, ask your primary care provider.