MRI Scans & How to get Through Them

Photo credit: University of Aberdeen

Last week, I had an MRI scan. I've probably had no more than six or seven over the years, but I feel I know the 'drill'. I  know what to expect and what to do, even if the last scan was over a year ago. Here are some thoughts:

What is an MRI?

I'll pretend not to bore you with the science (the truth is, I really don't know it!), but I will tell you what to expect. The scanner is a long machine with a table protruding from it. It makes ridiculously big sounds, which vibrate around you, but there is nothing intrusive about it and it's over sooner than you think.

What happens before an MRI?

1. You're given a questionnaire to complete asking you about any surgery you  might have had or any health issues that might impact the scans, e.g. did you swallow metal as a child, that kind of thing (only kidding).
2. The radiographer will go through the form with you and ask if you're wearing any metal.
3. You're likely to be asked to put on a gown in a changing room. You put personal possessions into a locker, from which you'll take the key.

What happens during an MRI?

1. You're taken into the imaging suite (ask where to put the key).
2. Depending on the type of scan you're having, you could be there for about an hour (my brain and spinal scans take about 50 mins).
3. You lie down on the table.
4. You're fitted with headphones (it's very noisy), head gear (which includes a funky mirror), and a hard foam insert under your knees to keep you comfortable. 
5. You're given a panic button (not to cause you panic, by the way!).
6. The radiographer goes back to their room (you'll see them through a screen).
7. They'll do a succession of mini scans. Each one will have a different sound, come from a different part of the machine, and sometimes they'll move the tray remotely, so tuck that hair in!
8. If you're having brain and spinal cord scans, they will move the tray. It might get a bit cold from the fan that keeps the machine cool, but it's an acceptable coolness.
9. They'll talk to you to let you know it's beginning.
10. Once you're done, take your key, get dressed and have a calming peppermint tea at the hospital café.

What to wear

1. Comfortable, loose clothing. It's fresh, but not too cold in there!
2. Take off jewellery, hairband, bra, trainers, watch, literally anything that has metal in it.
3. I've heard that eye make-up is a 'no-no', e.g. mascara. I've heard this on the grapevine, so not followed it up, but there may be truth in it so worth asking when booking the appointment.

What happens after?
Regardless of your physical state, after lying down and keeping still for so long, and possibly tensing muscles you never knew you had, you're likely to feel like a waddling duck when you come off the table. Your back may hurt too. All this will subside sooner after.

The good bit - Advice!

1. For some, this is a claustrophobic experience. Remember, this is your scan, so you can ask them to do various things that make you less nervous:
• To tell you when the next scan is happening and how long it will be
• To tell you when they're moving the tray
• To check the button works (I thought mine was a dud - she came running, so it really wasn't!)
2. It might help if you close your eyes.
3. If you're not sure if something you're wearing contains metal, take it off just in case - it won't be worth the hassle if you don't.
4. If you're on the chunky side, they'll likely adjust the machine. 
5. If you feel panic or you simply have an itchy nose, it's better to say something and stop between scans so you/ they can adjust. 
6. You can ask them for classical music, if this helps. 
7. Mindfulness. No, really! After a while, you start to fall asleep and the buzzing and drilling sounds like music. 

Benefit? It's a whole lot better than a lumbar puncture and it takes just as long to get the results!

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