Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to diagnose and monitor the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). We patients can expect to have regular MRIs, although the frequency will depend on our age and disease stability. It’s important that we be comfortable during the procedure, as it involves lying on our backs and remaining still for an extended period of time.
I’ve learned some lessons about MRIs that healthcare providers didn’t offer, and they may make your experience better.
I’ve been instructed to wear comfortable clothes without metal (i.e., buttons, snaps, zippers). Wearing my own clothes during an MRI is important to me, so I carefully plan my outfit. I’m often given the option to change into gowns or scrubs, but they can be ill-fitting, uncomfortable, and even revealing.
I’ve been told to change into a gown and given no other option. After I explained that I’d dressed appropriately and would like to wear my clothes, my body was scanned with a metal detector. Once technicians determined that I was metal-free, I was allowed to remain in my clothes. I thus learned to advocate for myself and ask questions when something seems contradictory or incorrect.
4 mistakes that have taught me lessons
Sometimes, however, I’ve learned my lessons through my mistakes. My first was to wear a bra with metal clasps in the back, so of course I had to remove it. For many women, being braless is pleasurable, but for others, it makes them self-conscious and physically uncomfortable. The lesson I learned was to wear a basic sports bra.
My second mistake was to wear warm clothing. The temperature in the room housing the MRI machine is kept about 70 degrees F with moderate humidity. I’m often offered a warm blanket when I’m being prepped for the procedure. Once the MRI begins, the temperature inside the machine heats up quickly.
To me, comfortable clothes are sweats from head to toe, and thus I’ve been overdressed and uncomfortably hot while getting scanned. The lesson I learned was to wear athletic pants made of light material or shorts and a short-sleeve T-shirt, and to decline the warm blanket. I might be cold while being prepped for the procedure, but I’ll be more comfortable during it. I do recommend wearing socks as your feet typically remain outside the machine, where it’s cooler.
My third mistake was requesting inappropriate music. MRIs make loud noises as they scan. I’m usually asked if I want headphones to listen to music and given a choice of genres. The music’s purpose is not only to counter the noise, but also to promote relaxation.
Instead of asking for a specific genre, as I wanted to be seen as easygoing and didn’t want to inflict my music preference on others, I let the MRI technician select the music. His selection was acceptable, but wouldn’t have been my choice. I later found out that others don’t hear my music selection.
Another time, I selected the pop hits genre. During the procedure, the song “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake played. Without realizing I was doing it, my feet were moving and having a dance party. The MRI technician had to remind me to remain still. I challenge you to listen to this song without dancing or at least tapping your foot to the rhythm.
Although I found this funny, I know it could’ve interfered with the MRI scan’s quality. I’ve found it’s best for me to listen to the sounds of ocean waves and not music. The lesson I learned was to identify my preferred relaxing, calming sounds before going to the appointment.
My fourth mistake was related to the requirement to not wear jewelry. My daughter had caught me in a weak moment, and I’d agreed to get another body piercing with her. Without thinking about my upcoming MRI, I got a second piercing in both ears. The metal studs shouldn’t be taken out for eight weeks to allow for proper healing. Early removal may result in not being able to reinsert them.
My MRI had been scheduled for five weeks after I got the piercings and thus had to be rescheduled. The lesson I learned was that I don’t need any more piercings. Seriously, though, I didn’t identify this problem proactively and want others having MRIs to keep my experience in mind.
I hope these tips gleaned from my experiences will help you feel more relaxed and prepared for your MRI.
Note: Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Multiple Sclerosis News Today or its parent company, BioNews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to multiple sclerosis.