Anyone on here refused an MRI due to the time involved and loud noises?

I just recently had an comprehensive MRI (with and without contrast dye) done on my head. It was tough, to be honest. But you can talk to your doctor ahead of time and they can give you a little something to relax you (Xanax). I was in there for 45 minutes, but I hear that for most people it’s usually half that time.

Just relax. It’s not an unpleasant experience. I was wondering why the technician kept asking if I was okay with it. You’re sliding me into a tube. it isn’t like it’s going to collapse or anything.

45 minutes of uninterrupted rest, and they even give me white noise? Where do I sign up?

^^ They pulled me out (but kept my headgear on) for 60 seconds halfway through to inject the contrast dye. The noises are not unlike dubstep or some kind of electronic beats during parts of it.

The noise can be mildly unsettling but it doesn’t last long. I kept my eyes shut and had earphones (that the staff provided) that played Mozart (there was a huge selection of music.

Deep breathing helps any tendency towards claustrophobia. In some areas there are MRI tubes that are open at both the foot and head ends. Ask your doctor what’s available at your hospital.

My bro-ion-law was allowed in during my sister’s MRI; he held one of her feet and that was helpful. Personally, i would not have liked that.

I also reminded myself that the modern technology that allows people to see my insides in detail is really phenomenal.

I’ve had several MRIs, and before each one, a nurse explained everything to me in detail including how long it would take, noises to expect, etc. Knowing what to expect, I never had any problems other than being a little bored.

@Seek_Kolinahr I hate to burst your bubble but “white noise” is like a fan on 3 speed. Used to block outside noises. An MRI has three different obnoxious sounds, none of them constant, that can be heard on youtube. My ex MIL said, “get me out of here.” Seriously, go to youtube to hear this “white noise” of which you speak. lol

Aware of the noises, knocks, bangs etc. that I was going to hear, I still worried about the claustrophobia. So I shut my eyes throughout the process. That worked for me.

I have performed hundreds of MRIs and have sat through many hours as a volunteer. I don’t find them particularly unpleasant. Really I find it pretty relaxing to just lie there for a while. The pictures afterward are pretty neat too.

They are not relaxing, There are a bunch of what if’s going on in your head because something could be wrong with your health. At least that’s how it was for me. It’s no spa date.