Hi there,
Absolutely, you have options! Many of my patients at MRI Lucknow with severe claustrophobia manage to get through MRIs with proper support.
Sedation is definitely available - just talk to your doctor about it. They can prescribe something mild like diazepam to take before the scan, or in more severe cases, arrange for monitored conscious sedation. You’ll need someone to drive you home afterward, though.
Open MRIs are indeed another good option. They have a much more spacious design with openings on the sides rather than being a complete tunnel. While they might be available privately, some NHS hospitals also have them - worth asking your doctor about both routes.
Other things that have helped my claustrophobic patients:
- Bringing someone who can stay in the room with you
- Using special prism glasses so you can see outside the scanner
- Listening to music during the scan
- Starting with feet-first positioning if possible
Given your previous experience, make sure you mention your severe claustrophobia when the scan is being arranged. The radiographers deal with this all the time and can take extra steps to make you comfortable.
Hope this helps!
Dr. Gaurav Pal
Senior Radiologist