What It's Like to Have an MRI

Merely Me Living With It I am a mother, a writer, and now an MS patient I just got diagnosed with MS in October of 2007 although my very... Send Message Subscribe: Merely Me

Monday, January 12, 2009
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If you are presently undergoing testing to find out if you have Multiple Sclerosis you undoubtedly will be told that you need an MRI scan. If you have never had one before, you might be wondering what it is like. Not to fear as I will tell you all about it! Although I have only been diagn...

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Paul
Monday, January 12, 2009 at 09:20 PM

The two MRI's I've had were in the enclosed type, painted a battleship gray. The first with ear plugs, the second with music of choice. Both times it seemed whatever was flying around me would fly out of it's case. The only consolation, lying there, was the thought it might fly harmlessly away from me and at the mono toned technicians feigning disinterest. Maybe they were.:(

Both tests were with contrast, both done by seasoned, or lucky, techs.

I appreciate the reminder about getting a copy of the scans, and when to ask for them. I had not.

re: Untitled Comment
Merely Me
Friday, January 23, 2009 at 07:13 PM

Hey there

You must have good veins or good techs! They always mess up my veins...my veins are small it seems so they have to practically beat up my arm to get one to pop out. I get sick thinking about it.

Thank you for sharing your experiences. It is a surreal experience isn't it...in the tube?

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Anonymous
Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at 04:29 PM

They should send this out with every appointment for an MRI. Thanks for sharing your experiences. I hope the bad jabbers stay away.

re: Untitled Comment
Merely Me
Friday, January 23, 2009 at 07:15 PM

Thanks...yeah I wish I had known some of this stuff before I had my MRI's. I am an old pro now with them. I almost go to sleep...but I have heard that some people do sleep and then they move around so...I try to stay awake.

I do thank you for your comment. Please come again!

my tips
Julie
Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at 11:04 AM

I've had several MRIs and now am comfortable with the routine. One thing I've noticed is getting a metallic taste in my mouth when they inject the contrast solution, which also gives me a cold sensation going up my arm. It's not uncomfortable, just strange.

I have never opened my eyes inside the tube, to avoid claustrophobia reactions. To prevent this, I ask for a small towel to be laid across my eyes. I find this calming.

Finally, I make myself think of the thumps of the MRI as rhythmic and following along has actually put me into a half-sleep or trance! If possible, I schedule my MRIs in the afternoon so I can enjoy a bit of a nap.

re: my tips
Merely Me
Friday, January 23, 2009 at 07:19 PM

Hi Julie

I never had the metallic taste...I wonder what causes that? These are all great suggestions and advice. I did once hear about how someone fell asleep during an MRI and was moving about so...I try not to sleep. I am always a bit too nervous anyways.

Thank you so much for stopping by to read and share. I will have to catch up with your shareposts. I hope you are doing well.

MRI
Larry
Sunday, January 18, 2009 at 11:14 PM

I have had several MRI's myself and have never had a problem with anything nor have I noticed a different taste from it. An MRI may be a little noisy and it may require a few minutes of being in a close quarter, but it is far better than getting several spinal taps.

Good explanation!

re: MRI
Merely Me
Friday, January 23, 2009 at 07:21 PM

Hi Larry!

So good to see you! I didn't know you have had several spinal taps. I would like to hear about that experience. I had declined doing one when asked.

Please do come again...and I do thank you for your comment!

I wish I would have read this
Carla
Friday, January 23, 2009 at 04:50 PM

I wish I would have read this before my first MRI last week! I was not prepared other than not wearing metal. This is all good to remember for my next one.

re: I wish I would have read this
Merely Me
Friday, January 23, 2009 at 07:23 PM

Hello Carla!

Oh I would love to hear how your scan went. It is a bit daunting that first time. Thank you so much for stopping by to read and share. It is a pleasure to meet you!

re: re: I wish I would have read this
Carla
Friday, January 23, 2009 at 08:00 PM

Thank you for your response! I found this site on Twitter yesterday and it has been very informative.

I was diagnosed the very next day. The scan was on Thursday morning (Jan 15th) and my doctor's appointment was the next afternoon. I'm still trying to let it sink in.

re: re: re: I wish I would have read this
Merely Me
Friday, January 23, 2009 at 09:12 PM

Wow...on Twitter you say? I have not used twitter yet. Do you like it?

I can't even begin to imagine all the emotions you must be feeling right now. When I was diagnosed I felt so angry for awhile. Then that feeling gave way to...this surreal numbness. Don't be surprised if your emotions are just all over the place. I am so sorry that you have this disease. But I am glad that you found us here.

If there is anything I can do...please let me know.

re: re: re: re: I wish I would have read this
carla
Saturday, January 24, 2009 at 12:42 AM
Thank you so much for your support. The online MS community is so helpful in so many ways. Its a lot to take in but its good to know I'm not alone. By the way, I love Twitter! :)