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Tips for Calming Your Nerves before an MRI

Nov 17, 2018

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MRI diagnostic imaging in Suffolk County, NY, is one of the safest ways to diagnose all types of medical conditions. However, because MRI scans require patients to lie still in an enclosed space for a lengthy period of time, some people experience a lot of anxiety. If you need an MRI and have a fear of being in a confined space or the loud noises the machine makes, check out these calming techniques.

Strike Up a Conversation with Your Technician

Did you know that during an MRI there’s always open communication between you and your technician? This means that you don’t have to be trapped in your own thoughts. Ask your technician questions about what is happening during each step of the procedure. During quieter points during the exam, talk about small stuff with the technician to get your mind off the procedure.

Listen to Music

Are you not a talker? That’s okay. Diagnostic imaging centers in Suffolk County, NY, allow patients to listen to music through headphones. Many centers have CD players or allow you to connect your smartphone to Bluetooth to listen to music while the scan is in progress. Music is a wonderful way to focus your attention elsewhere and calm your nerves.

Practice Mindful Breathing

Breathing centers the body and calms the mind. Some people are able to mindfully breathe on their own, drawing their attention to their breath and focusing on the calming sensation that breathing brings to the body. If you’re not able to do this on your own, use the headphones and connect to a mindfulness app to walk you through a guided meditation. Before you know it, the MRI is over and you’re on your way home. Check with your diagnostic imaging center in Suffolk County, NY, to find out if they have suggested guided meditations.

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Wear a Sleep Mask

Some people do better when they keep their eyes closed during MRI scans. However, not everyone is able to keep their eyes closed on their own. Wearing a sleep mask during optima diagnostic imaging Suffolk County, NY, is an alternative option to help you relax. If you fall asleep, all the better. You probably need the rest and it makes the time go by faster.

Plan Your Next Vacation

Not only does taking a bit of a mindful wander to faraway places calm your nerves, but it also invokes feelings of happiness. You don’t even have to plan a vacation. You could plot out scenes for that novel you’ve been working on or just let your mind loose to happy places. Letting go of your thoughts is a wonderful way to relax and pass the time. It feels good to let go of all the stress on your shoulders, even if for a little while.

When you need an MRI scan, contact the Peconic Bay Medical Center for advanced diagnostic imaging in Suffolk County, NY, and learn more about the procedure.