Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

I've had several of both. I did my first MRI scan cold, with no idea what I was getting into. I do have claustrophobia and it was pretty bad. I did the next two with IV valium which helped. If I need another, my doctor has suggested I try Ativan and lots of it. If you doctor really wants you to have an MRI, I suggest you discuss your fears with him/her frankly and arrange for sedation. So long as you have someone to drive you home this shouldn't be a problem.

I do much better with the CAT scan. You are not in a tube, you are in something that looks like about a 2 foot section of a huge storm sewer pipe. This means that even though you're inside, the space is large, part of you is always sticking out, and you could - if necessary - get yourself the rest of the way out. Also, you always see daylight. You'd probably do okay even without drugs, but I don't see why you couldn't request some type of mild drug like Valium even for this. Again, you'd need someone to drive you home.

Whichever test you do, explain to the techs that you're claustrophobic and you need to know they're always there. Ask them to talk to you from time to time and tell them you want to know they'll answer if you talk to them. Most of the ones I've encountered are very understanding.

BTW, I tried an open air MRI for a head scan once and it freaked me out totally. It might be better for a shoulder or torso or something, but for the head MRI they still wanted to position a huge machine right over me and there was no way I could hold still for that. I got up, walked out, and told my doctor I'd rather he just drill a hole in my head.

Having said all this, please do have whatever tests you need. The machines are great for figuring out what's going on in there and heaven knows there are enough drugs in the world to let you pretty much just sleep through the process.

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