Claustrophobia and MRI: Tips, Alternatives, and How We Can Help

Up to up to 15% of patients per published studies experience significant anxiety or claustrophobia during MRI exams. Some cannot complete the scan. If this sounds like you, know that you are not alone — and you have options.

At Advanced Medical Imaging, we help claustrophobic patients get the imaging they need every single day. Here is how.

Why MRI Triggers Claustrophobia

A traditional closed-bore MRI machine is essentially a large tube — about 60 cm (24 inches) in diameter and 150-200 cm (5-6.5 feet) long. You lie on a table that slides into this tube, and you must remain still for 20-45 minutes.

For people with claustrophobia, this triggers: - Feeling trapped or confined - Difficulty breathing (perceived, not actual) - Rapid heartbeat and sweating - Overwhelming urge to escape - Panic attacks

The noise does not help either. MRI machines produce loud knocking and buzzing sounds (up to up to 110 decibels per RadiologyInfo.org) as the magnetic coils rapidly switch on and off.

Strategies That Help

Before the Exam 1. Visit the facility in advance. Come see the machine, ask questions, and meet the technologists. Familiarity reduces fear. 2. Ask about the specific machine. Modern wide-bore MRI machines have a 70 cm (28-inch) opening — 4 inches wider than older models. That extra space makes a significant difference. 3. Discuss sedation with your doctor. A mild oral sedative (like lorazepam) taken 30-60 minutes before the exam can significantly reduce anxiety. You will need a driver. 4. Practice relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided meditation in the days before your exam. 5. Know your scan time. Uncertainty breeds anxiety. Ask the technologist exactly how long each sequence will take.

During the Exam 1. Keep your eyes closed from the moment you lie down. Many patients say the anxiety comes from seeing the machine, not from the actual space. 2. Use the panic button. You will be given a squeeze ball connected to an alarm. You can stop the exam at any time. Knowing you have control reduces panic. 3. Listen to music. We provide headphones or earplugs. Bring your own playlist on your phone — we can connect it. 4. Focus on breathing. Slow, steady breaths: 4 counts in, 4 counts hold, 4 counts out. This activates your parasympathetic nervous system and counteracts the fight-or-flight response. 5. Use visualization. Imagine you are lying on a beach, in a hammock, or anywhere open and relaxing. 6. Go in feet-first when possible. For many exams (knee, ankle, pelvis, lower spine), you enter the machine feet-first, and your head remains outside or near the opening. Ask if this is an option for your exam. 7. Bring a support person. A friend or family member can sit in the MRI room with you (after being screened for metal). Just knowing someone is there helps.

Open MRI: The Spacious Alternative

Our Open MRI is designed specifically for patients who cannot tolerate a closed machine. Instead of a tube, it has: - Open sides — no enclosed tunnel - A spacious design with room above and around you - No claustrophobia trigger for most patients

Who Benefits from Open MRI? - Patients with claustrophobia - Larger patients who do not fit comfortably in a closed bore - Pediatric patients who need a parent nearby - Elderly patients who have difficulty lying flat in a tube - Anyone who simply prefers a less intimidating experience

Is Image Quality Different? Open MRI machines use a lower magnetic field strength than high-field closed machines. For many exams — spine, extremities, joints — the image quality is excellent and diagnostically equivalent. For certain specialized studies (brain, abdomen, cardiac), a high-field machine may be preferred.

Our radiologist will help determine which machine is best for your specific exam. In many cases, the Open MRI provides all the diagnostic information needed.

When Sedation Makes Sense

If your doctor determines that a high-field MRI is medically necessary and you cannot tolerate the closed machine even with relaxation techniques: - Oral sedation (a pill taken before the exam) works for most patients - You will need someone to drive you home - Inform our scheduling team so we can plan accordingly

You Are in Control

The most important thing to remember: you are in control. You can stop the exam at any time. Our technologists are experienced, compassionate, and will work with you to make the exam as comfortable as possible.

Do not avoid getting an MRI you need because of fear. Call us at (727) 398-5999, tell us about your claustrophobia, and we will create a plan that works for you. Or schedule online and note your concerns — we will call you to discuss options before your appointment.