How to Overcome Claustrophobia During an MRI Scan

1. How to Overcome Claustrophobia During an MRI Scan Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a wonderful diagnostic test that can potentially provide clear images of internal organs, tissues, and nervous systems of the body. It is a nightmare test for claustrophobic patients since the patient must lie inside a close enclosure within an MRI machine for quite a while. We address such concerns at Elite Scan Centre, which is the best scanning center in Thrissur. We reassure our patients and leave them tension-free during MRI scans. In this article, we are giving some tips regarding how to overcome claustrophobia while an MRI scan is taken. Understanding MRI and Why It Feels Confined Persistent magnetic fields and radio waves are employed by MRI machines to chart the body in detail. MRIs are not radiation tests such as CT scans or X-rays but significantly more perilous to use for most purposes of diagnostic intent. The subject-of-concern MRI equipment is a tunnel, though, and this will inevitably afflict patients who have difficulty standing upright where it is restrictive with claustrophobia. Some of the claustrophobic effects in an MRI machine are: ● Racing heartbeat and shortness of breath ● Dizziness or sweating ● Escape behavior or panic attack ● Choked or trapped feeling ● Fear can be coped with and overcome in several ways. 1. Have an Open MRI or Wide-Bore MRI Machine We, the best scanning center in Thrissur, Elite Scan Centre have MRI machines with next-generation technology, i.e., wide-bore MRI. The bore is wide as that the patients are not claustrophobic but still get good pictures. If otherwise you can't stand it, you can avail yourself of the luxury of open MRI, wide and comfortable. 2. Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques One of the best things to do in order to have minimal worry about receiving an MRI is to do a breathing exercise and meditation. Below is how to utilize each prior to, as well as during, receiving scans. - Taking Deep breath: Inhale deeply for four seconds through the nose, hold for four, and exhale for six through the mouth. Just continue to do that over and over again so your nerves will subside.

2. - Progressive muscle relaxation: Relax and tense your sets of muscles, starting with your toes and going up through your head. Visualization: Sit comfortably with closed eyes and envision yourself in a relaxing setting, e.g., on a beach or peaceful garden. - These will neither induce sleep nor reduce stress. 3. Listen to Music or Guided Meditation Most of the new MRI scanners, including those at Elite Scan Centre, allow one to listen to music or guided relaxation during the test. The distraction gets progressively more effective and less stressful with each use. Have your own relaxing music list or ask if the relaxation music preloaded can be used and is something offered by the technician. 4. Wear a Sleeping Mask or Close Eyes One of the fast and effective tips on not being caught is closing your eyes while scanning. To avoid claustrophobia, you may use an eyesight cloth cover or a sleep mask when you go into the machine. 5. Request a Mild Sedative (If Necessary) If you have terrible claustrophobia and unmedicated testing cannot be done, your doctor can prescribe a mild sedative prior to testing. This will relax you and place you to sleep during testing. You will need to have someone bring you home after the test afterward if you do have to be on a sedative, though. 6. Discuss with the MRI Technician Elite Scan Centre radiography personnel are instructed on how to handle nervous patients. You never have anybody on their own in the scanner—a member of staff is always behind you. You will also have a panic button, if ever you do feel scared, and spoken to through intercom by staff who can attempt to reassure you. Make them know how nervous you are and they will walk you through it at your own speed each time you request them to. 7. Ask for Test Run or Breaks If very nervous, ask them to do a test run before scanning first. Then you become accustomed to the machine but without referring to it for imaging. If it is a long scan, then they can give you breaks in between or short breaks between the shots so that you relax. 8. Emphasize the Positive Side of the MRI Scan Keep in mind, the MRI is included in your diagnosis and treatment of your condition. The test is not surgery, harmless, and will give your doctor information, which in evaluating your good health is invaluable. Grateful for how important the test is, you can change your attitude from fear to necessity. 9. Bring a Support Person

3. If the facility allows it, bringing a trusted friend or family member can help ease your anxiety. Even if they cannot be in the MRI room with you, knowing they are nearby can provide emotional reassurance. 10. Choose the Best Scanning Center in Thrissur for a Comfortable Experience We want you to feel comfortable while with us at Elite Scan Centre and use the most advanced MRI equipment to make you feel relaxed and as comfortable as possible. We also have our staff trained in claustrophobia management and will do our best to assist you when having the test. Claustrophobia can never hinder you from getting an MRI scan when you need one. With appointment to the top best scanning center in Thrissur, relaxation techniques, and reservation of other MRI centres appointment, claustrophobia can be minimized and you are able to get the scan at your convenience. In fear, do not hesitate to contact your doctor or with the MRI personnel. For a peaceful, dependable, and patient-friendly MRI scan, come to Elite Scan Centre, Thrissur's best-rated scanning centre. Book your appointment today and experience diagnostic imaging with empathy and ease!