There are several articles and videos on the internet about an MRI scan which will help you build confidence and be at peace before taking one. You can enquire if the centre has any facility that can help alleviate fear. Some scanning centres offer open MRI which is not as confining as the regular MRI scans. Features like music and movies are also available that can help you relax. At times, if it is utterly necessary, you can ask for anti-anxiety medications. This will keep you more comfortable.
You can have a friend or a family member present with you during the scan. A loved one who can see through all the little details for you will give you the warmth and security you require during the time. When you are going through a stressful experience, a loved one who can stay close by can help you stay strong and you will feel more comfortable. The intrusion and presence of a person you know will keep you calm and relaxed during the scan.
Whatever said and done, people will still feel scared once they are inside the scanning machine. The stress can cause you to breathe heavily. Take control of it. You must try and regulate breathing. The technicians at our scanning centre in Chennai will give you ample advice which will help you be relaxed and be relieved of stress. Breathing techniques is one of the best ways to keep you calm. You need to take a slow, long inhale through the nose, hold the breath for a few seconds, and blow the breath through the lips as you relax the muscles of your face. This technique will force your brain to think that you are not in any danger.
As you are inside the scanning machine, close your eyes and imagine that you are in a place you like or with someone you prefer. You can sing a song or replay a movie in your head. Imagine anything that is possible to take your mind off the fear and anxiety. Meditation and daydreaming can help you be relieved from stress and anxiety. It is okay to have fear. You must remember that you are not the first one to fear an MRI scan.