Guest guest Posted October 20, 2004 Report Share Posted October 20, 2004 , I have brain MRIs regularly for my brain tumor. I've had both open and closed versions. I do prefer the " open " because I have claustrophobia but there is still a huge circular machine directly over your head even though you are not in the tunnel. In both they use a helmet and clamp your head in place to prevent movement. I can get through them by keeping my eyes closed, never peeking, thinking spacious thoughts, deep breathing and prayer. It also helps me if the technician talks to me through the mic at intervals. Some of them will announce each sequence of bangs and taps, saying this will last 7 minutes, this will last 3 minutes, etc. You might ask the technician if they will do this for you if you think it might help. I also amuse myself by musically analyzing the rhythms and sound sequences--brings back memories of taking dictation in music theory class. They always give me a " panic button " to hold so I can push it if needed, but I never have. If the sequence gets interrupted, they have to start all over again. Mine take about 40 - 45 minutes but it always seems like hours. My son has no problem at all with MRIs, just relaxes and sleeps. I wish I could! Barbara > Does anyone have experience being in an MRI brain scan machine???? I have requested to go to a " open " MRI place, but I saw something on TV tonight that makes me think even the open one is going to strap a machine on my claustrophobic head:( > Any one able to tell me what to expect? > > Smiles to you, > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 20, 2004 Report Share Posted October 20, 2004 , My last MRI brain scan took approximately 45 minutes. This was with the contrast. I have had ones that were 25-30 minutes. I will be with you in spirit for support. My friend once offered to knock me over the head with an iron skillet, so I would be out. Maybe an idea??!! :-) Smiles and hugs, a Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 20, 2004 Report Share Posted October 20, 2004 haha,thats a good Idea, I do have a friend that would like to do that at least once:) Sooo maybe that is the solution? Thanks for your support. Smiles to you to Re: MRI brain scan > > > , > My last MRI brain scan took approximately 45 minutes. This was with the contrast. I have had ones that were 25-30 minutes. I will be with you in spirit for support. My friend once offered to knock me over the head with an iron skillet, so I would be out. Maybe an idea??!! :-) > Smiles and hugs, > a > > > > Medical advice, information, opinions, data and statements contained herein are not necessarily those of the list moderators. The author of this e mail is entirely responsible for its content. List members are reminded of their responsibility to evaluate the content of the postings and consult with their physicians regarding changes in their own treatment. > > Personal attacks are not permitted on the list and anyone who sends one is automatically moderated or removed depending on the severity of the attack. > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 20, 2004 Report Share Posted October 20, 2004 Hi , I think my brain scan lasted 30 to 40 minutes. My brain scan was with " Contrast " and " Without Contrast " . And as Barbara said they do announce when the next sequence of bangs and taps will start. And there is always the panic button if you have problems. I also wanted to mention that it might be a good idea to bring a picture with you, so if they don't have anything in there for you to look at, you can tape up the picture that you brought with you. It will help you to relax. Just bring your favorite pic, one that will keep you relaxed. Like I said in my first post to you, I have always done very well with the MRI's but my last one was not. I don't know what happened but I definitely went into a panic mode. The helmets that they attach to you aren't filled with holes all around it, and nothing to be afraid of. Actually that will most likely be the one thing that doesn't bother you at all. Good Luck, when is this MRI? Hugs, Ann-Marie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 20, 2004 Report Share Posted October 20, 2004 My three-year old had a brain MRI, so you'll probably be okay. Oh, he was sedated I got my MRI right after him. I've had about eight. The facility keeps a nurse and allows both parents in the room for kids (even gives us ear plugs!). I like the closed MRI better, I think you can see too much with the open MRI machine. I just close my eyes and do " 99 bottles of beer on the wall " in my head, usually I get to about the 20's... Now if I was going for an EMG, I'd be scared! Take care, RH > Does anyone have experience being in an MRI brain scan machine???? I have requested to go to a " open " MRI place, but I saw something on TV tonight that makes me think even the open one is going to strap a machine on my claustrophobic head:( > Any one able to tell me what to expect? > > Smiles to you, > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 25, 2004 Report Share Posted October 25, 2004 Hi , I'm sorry you have had the McArdle's episode and have to reschedule your MRI. It's always nice to have the tests behind you. I'm glad you are coming out of the muscle episode and will look for your message on the rescheduled test. Hopefully, you won't have to wait long. Smiles back, Alice Just wanted to let you know about the MRI, I didn't get it done, had to cancel. I had a McArdle's muscle episode and have been down and out since Thursday night. Just coming out of it now. So I will reschedule as soon as I know I am out of the woods with this. Smiles to you, Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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